As Moses Sichone has named his first Chipolopolo Boys squad for the 2025 Morocco Africa Cup of nations, Clifford Mulenga has encouraged him to demonstrate bravery during the tournament.

Sichone has dropped eleven players who were at AfCON last year, and he has included six players from the U-20 to the squad going to Morocco.

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

Mulenga, the 2007 CAF Young Player of the Year, notes that the phase represents a defining moment for Sichone, leading the team as head coach for the first time.

In a strongly worded message, Mulenga said Sichone must approach the tournament with intent and clarity.

“This is not a trial-and-error opportunity. This opportunity will either make or break you, bro,” he wrote.

He advised Sichone to work closely with his technical bench to make decisive plans.

“Sit down with your technical bench and decide how you will make things work out. This is not a small responsibility. Be brave.”

Sichone will lead the Chipolopolo into an intensive pre-tournament camp in Spain.

As part of preparations, Zambia will face defending AfCON champions Ivory Coast and DR Congo in high-profile friendlies.

Zambia will open their AfCON campaign with a crucial match against Mali, a fixture that could set the tone for their Group A ambitions.

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