Christopher Katongo, the captain of the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), has shared his expectations for the Zambian national team as they get ready for the 2025 AfCON, which will take place in Morocco.
Zambia is in Group A alongside hosts Morocco, Mali, and Comoros, setting up a challenging but competitive path for the Chipolopolo.
Speaking to FAZ Media, the former skipper stressed the importance of consistent qualification and participation at the continental showpiece, saying regular appearances form the foundation for future success.
Katongo urged fans to remain patient as the team continues to rebuild and gather experience.
“We can’t push the team to go and win the Africa Cup immediately. I’ve been there—to win the AfCON, we need more experience and more participation. The more you qualify, the more you compete with the top teams.”
Katongo said failure to qualify for AfCON tournament is a minor setback.
“When we won AfCON, we were booted out in 2006, 2008, and 2010 before lifting the trophy in 2012. You see the consistency,” he said.
“Qualifying is the best medicine for competing. Once you qualify regularly, results will start coming. Whatever the team brings home now, I can’t complain because it’s a continuous process.”
Katongo encouraged the squad to focus on working hard on the pitch while supporters rally behind them, emphasizing that sustained participation is key to bringing Zambia back among Africa’s elite.
The Africa Cup will kick off with Morocco taking on Comoros on December 21.
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