READY FOR BATTLE: Zambia’s Final 28 for AFCON 2025 Unveiled

10.12.2025 | Frank Saka ✍️

The wait is finally over. After weeks of speculation and nationwide anticipation, the 28 warriors who will carry Zambia’s hopes into the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations have been officially announced. On 10th December 2025, caretaker coach Moses Sichone unveiled the squad that will fly to Rabat, Morocco—stepping into the role after the departure of former coach Avram Grant.

For a nation of over 20 million, this announcement was more than just a list of names. It was the beginning of a new collective dream.

Lessons From the Past, Pressure for the Present

Zambia’s previous AFCON outing ended in disappointment, with the team exiting at the group stage. The painful memories remain fresh, and the message is unmistakable:

There is no room for complacency.

Drawn in Group A alongside Mali, Morocco (the hosts), and the Comoros Islands, Zambia will face pressure from the opening whistle. Meeting Morocco again only raises the stakes—every touch, every pass, and every decision must reflect growth and intent. The margin for error has never been smaller.

The Ones Left Behind

From the 55-man provisional squad, 26 players did not make the final cut—presumably due to performance considerations. Their exclusion highlights the increasing competitiveness of modern football and the high standards required at national level.

The absence of some big names has sparked debate across the country:

Toaster Nsabata – Experienced goalkeeper with loyal supporters.

Emmanuel Banda – A seasoned midfielder whose omission surprised many.

Tandi Mwape & Benedict Chepeshi – Both played crucial minutes in the previous AFCON but miss out this time.

Clatous “Triple C” Chama – Absent due to a family matter.

Edward “Tiger” Chilufya – Out with a knee injury expected to heal early next year.

Rally Bwalya, Kelvin Kapumbu & Golden Mafwenta – Dropped following underwhelming league form.

These decisions have sparked discussions about whether form, experience, or both should shape squad selection.

New Blood, New Hope

Despite the absences, the squad features exciting newcomers. Leading the list of debutants is Jack Daniel Kalichi Lahne, whose red-hot scoring form in Austria has captured the attention of fans and analysts alike.

Other promising additions include:

David Simukonda

Wilson Chisala

Pascal Phiri

These young talents bring hunger, dynamism, and the kind of fearlessness Zambia desperately needs on the continental stage.

Experience Must Lead the Way

For the players returning for another AFCON, this tournament is a moment of truth.

If the last AFCON was the classroom, this one is the exam.

Veterans like Stoppila Sunzu, heading to his sixth AFCON, carry enormous responsibility. His leadership at the back will be crucial in guiding younger teammates. Similarly, seasoned defenders like Kabaso Chongo will be expected to steady the ship, provide guidance, and set the tone both on and off the pitch.

What Zambians Expect

Fans across the country are united in their demands:

Passion

Unity

Discipline

Creativity

Goals

Administrative issues, allowances, or differences with the Football Association must be set aside. At this moment, the badge comes first.

The nation wants a team that fights with heart, intelligence, and pride—one capable of dictating play, defending resolutely, and striking with purpose. Zambia’s identity must shine through: resilient, fearless, and determined.

The Road to Rabat

All hopes now rest on these 28 players and the leadership of coach Moses Sichone. He carries both the weight of expectation and the honour of guiding the Copper Bullets into one of the biggest tournaments on the continent.

The stage is set.

The battle lines are drawn.

The whistle will blow soon.

And Zambia must be ready for battle.

All the best, lads!

We stand behind you.