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Chipolopolo Head Coach, Moses Sichone, has set a confident tone ahead of Zambia’s opening match against Mali at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), saying the team is fully focused and motivated to start the tournament strongly.
Zambia faces Mali today, December 22, 2025, at Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca, with kick-off scheduled for 16:00 local time.
Sichone said while excitement was high within the camp, the team remained conscious of the responsibility of representing the nation on the continental stage.
“While it is exciting to be here as individuals, we are not forgetting the big task of representing millions of Zambians,” he said.
The Chipolopolo coach struck a confident tone when discussing the Group A opener against the Eagles of Mali.
“The respect we have for Mali will only apply before kick-off,” Sichone said.
Commenting on CAF’s decision to change the AFCON cycle, Sichone said the development had no bearing on his preparations or focus.
“As a coach, I will not be bothered by the decision to change the AFCON cycle,” he said.
Meanwhile, Chipolopolo captain, Fashion Sakala, said Zambia had the quality and balance to compete strongly at the tournament.
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“The mix of experienced and young players in the squad is one of our strengths at this AFCON,” Sakala said.
“We have a team with the capacity to compete well at this AFCON,” he added.
Zambia begins its AFCON campaign against Mali looking to make a strong statement in its opening fixture.
In other AFCON Group B matches scheduled for today, South Africa will face Angola at Marrakesh Stadium in Marrakesh with kick-off set for 19:30 local time, while Egypt take on Zimbabwe at Adrar Stadium in Agadir at 22:00 local time.
President Hakainde Hichilema has also wished the Chipolopolo boys well ahead of the Group A clash.
“That special moment when every Zambian pauses and joins forces in supporting our boys who are flying our flag in Morocco,” President Hichilema wrote on his Facebook page on December 22, 2025.
“Given our proud football history including as champions in 2012, we have a duty to preserve our football pride as a nation.”
The President called on all Zambians to rally behind the team as they compete in their 19th AFCON appearance.
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