The Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts extends its best wishes to the Zambia men’s national football team, the Chipolopolo Boys, as they take on Mali this afternoon in their opening match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) being held in Morocco.
Speaking ahead of the fixture, Youth, Sport and Arts Minister Hon. Elvis C. Nkandu, MP, said the team carries the pride and full support of the nation as they begin their continental campaign.
“On behalf of the government of the Republic of Zambia, I wish to assure the Chipolopolo of our unwavering support as they represent the country at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Our Republican President, Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, and over 20 million Zambians are solidly behind the team,” Hon. Nkandu said.
The Minister noted that Zambia’s rich football heritage, highlighted by the historic 2012 AFCON victory, remains a source of inspiration and belief that the team can once again compete at the highest level on the African continent.
“The Chipolopolo have previously demonstrated that with unity, discipline, and belief, anything is possible. A strong start in today’s match will set the right tone for the games ahead, and we are confident in the team’s ability to rise to the occasion.”
Hon. Nkandu has urged the players and technical bench to play with commitment, discipline, and national pride, emphasizing that the entire country is rallying behind them throughout the tournament.
Issued by:
Nchimunya Ng’andu (Mr.)
Principal Public Relations Officer
Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts
Lusaka, Zambia 22nd December, 2025