Sichone impressed with Zambia progress ahead of AFCON

Zambia national team head coach Moses Sichone has described ongoing preparations ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) as satisfying adding they will to Morocco to compete and win the trophy

The Chipolopolo will be making their 19th appearance at the 35th edition of the tournament organised by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) in the North African nation. They qualified for the AFCON after topping their qualification group.

In Morocco, Zambia will be looking to emulate their best run from 2012 when they went on to lift the title. Zambia have had six podium finishes from their previous 18 appearances.

According to Sichone, who will be in charge following the sacking of former Chelsea coach Avram Grant, he was already impressed with how the players are sticking to instructions and quickly buying into his tactical plan.

Zambia have tried to change things in training

“So far so good, we started the training two weeks ago. I like the progress and that’s why we’ve tried to change the training. We don’t have much time but I’m seeing positive things from the team,” said Sichone.

Sichone declared that the Chipolopolo will not be going to the AFCON as mere participants but as competitors. He, however, regretted that he won’t have the full squad sooner, with FIFA allowing releases only on December 15.

“It’s just unfortunate that we won’t have all foreign-based players in good time as we wanted to utilize the (Spain camp); by having everyone on board. I only know of Kings Kangwa and Lubambo Musonda whom I have personally spoken to. They (Kangwa and Lubambo) will be released on the 14th of December.”

Zambia have been pooled in Group A alongside hosts Morocco, Comoros, and Mali. They will kick off their campaign against Mali on December 22 at Stade Mohammed V, before taking on Comoros at the same venue on December 26. Their final group fixture will be against Morocco at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium on December 29.

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