Patson Daka is Zambia’s top striker ahead of the 2025 Morocco Africa Cup of Nations, which starts on December 21, 2025, even though he has only scored once this season.

The Chipolopolo boys will be making their 19th appearance at the tournament after having won the trophy in 2012.

At Leicester City, the Chipolopolo Boys striker has endured a tough scoring slump.

In the current season, Daka has only scored one goal and provided one assist in 20 appearances.

Having featured 45 times for the Chipolopolo Boys, Daka has scored 21 times, a goal behind Mbesuma with 22 goals from 65 caps.

At the 2023 AfCON tournament, Daka featured in three matches, scoring one goal and providing one assist.

Zambia will begin their AfCON journey on 22nd December, as they will face Mali in their Group A opener.

However, speaking to Bolanews exclusively, 2012 AfCON winner, Collins Mbesuma has encouraged Daka to redeem himself.

“I pray, Patson Daka can redeem his form at the AFCON. Sometimes it’s good to take a break from your club to the national team because with the national team you are also representing your country,” he said.

“There are players who are off form at the Club, but at the National team they are doing well, so I wish Daka is going to do the same,” added Mbesuma.

Mbesuma added that Daka should not be affected by the current goal drought at his English club.

“The scoring drought at his club cannot affect him at the AfCON tournament; When you see your fellow Zambians, you feel relieved. I hope and wish him all the best,” noted Mbesuma.

Zambia is in Group A alongside Morocco, Mali, and Comoros.

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