AFCON: Zambia respect for Mali will apply before kick-off – Sichone

Zambia national team head coach Moses Sichone has set the tempo for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) opener against Mali saying the team is fully focused and motivated to start strongly their campaign in Morocco.

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.

Zambia finished top of Group G with 13 points, qualifying alongside African champions Ivory Coast, who came second with 12 points. Zambia’s qualification marked the first time in nine years they had achieved back-to-back AFCON qualification.

Sichone upbeat ahead of Zambia AFCON opener

Ahead of their opener against Mali at Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca on Monday, Sichone said while the excitement of being at AFCON is evident within the camp, the team remained mindful of the responsibility of representing the nation.

“While it is exciting to be here as individuals, we are not forgetting the big task of representing millions of Zambians,” Sichone told reporters. “The respect we have for Mali will only apply before kick-off.

On CAF’s decision to change the AFCON cycle, Sichone said the matter does not affect his focus as a coach.

“As a coach, I will not be bothered by the decision to change the AFCON cycle.”

Meanwhile newly appointed Zambia captain Fashion Sakala believes the Chipolopolo has the quality and balance to compete strongly at the tournament.

“The mix of experienced and young players in the squad is one of our strengths at this AFCON,” said Sakala. “We have a team with the capacity to compete well at this AFCON.”

After playing Mali, Zambia will take on Comoros at the same venue on December 26, before facing Morocco at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium on December 29.

⚽ Follow Pan-Africa Football across platforms for real-time news and stories.