Sichone Pleased With Early Progress as Spain Camp Kicks Into Gear

09.12.2025 | Football DNA

Chipolopolo Head Coach Moses Sichone says he is impressed with the team’s early progress as preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations intensify. With the Spain training camp now underway, Sichone has praised the players for their discipline, focus, and quick adaptation to his tactical blueprint.

Speaking after a morning training session at UNILUS Silverest Campus, the coach highlighted that the squad has shown encouraging signs in both attitude and execution.

“So far so good. We started training two weeks ago, and I like the progress,” Sichone said. “We don’t have much time, but I’m seeing positive things from the team. The players are responding well to instructions.”

Sichone, who is expected to announce his final 28-man squad tomorrow, has called on fans to rally behind the team. He noted that the squad blends youth and experience — a balance he believes will be vital at the AFCON.

Not Just Participants — Competitors

Setting the tone for Zambia’s ambitions, Sichone emphasized that the Chipolopolo are not travelling to Morocco to simply make up the numbers.

“We are not going to the AFCON as mere participants, but as competitors,” he declared.

However, the coach expressed concerns over the delayed release of foreign-based players, with FIFA regulations allowing clubs to release footballers only from December 15.

“It’s unfortunate that we won’t have all foreign-based players as early as we wanted,” he said. “I know Kings Kangwa and Lubambo Musonda will be available by December 14, but ideally, we wanted a full squad for the Spain camp to aid our assessment.”

Sichone hopes to have a complete squad in Spain to finalize his tactical evaluations before the tournament.

Sakala Confident as Players Target Knockout Stage

Meanwhile, striker Fashion Sakala has reaffirmed the team’s collective ambition — progressing beyond the group stage.

“For us, we only have one goal: to reach the next stage. That’s the language in camp,” Sakala said.

The Al Fayha forward acknowledged the difficulty of Group A but expressed confidence in Zambia’s ability to rise to the challenge, especially after positive friendly performances against South Africa and Angola.

“We know the AFCON and how tough it is, but we have a very good team,” Sakala said. “We also have players who are not yet known and ready to surprise many.”

Sakala added that internal competition for places is strong, with every player fighting to earn a spot in the final squad.