Zambia Eyes Redemption at 2025 COSAFA Cup After Historic Setback
As the countdown begins to the 2025 HOLLYWOODBETS COSAFA Cup, the Zambian national team, Chipolopolo, enters the regional tournament with history on their side but redemption on their minds.
After a shock exit in the group stage of the 2024 edition, where Zambia suffered three straight losses, including defeats to Kenya, Zimbabwe, and Comoros, the seven-time COSAFA champions are determined to bounce back.
“Zambia’s performance last year was one of the worst in the tournament’s history,” COSAFA stated on their official website. “But if there’s any team that knows how to recover, it’s Zambia.”
A Legacy of Success
Zambia remains the most decorated team in COSAFA Cup history, having claimed titles in 1997, 1998, 2006, 2013, 2019, 2022, and 2023. Their consistency has made them a dominant force in Southern African football. They’ve reached the final 10 times and boast a competitive all-time record of 73 matches, 36 wins, 22 draws, and 15 losses, with an impressive 100 goals scored.
From Setback to Comeback
The 2024 campaign marked a historic low, with Zambia enduring their longest losing streak in COSAFA Cup history, three consecutive losses, and failing to score in any of the group matches. But the Chipolopolo are looking to rebuild, with renewed energy and focus under new leadership at the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ), now headed by President Keith Mweemba.
Road to Glory
Zambia’s COSAFA journey has seen its share of ups and downs, from early dominance to painful penalty exits and stunning finals. But their back-to-back victories in 2022 and 2023 showed a resurgence that fans hope to see again in 2025.
As the tournament draws near, attention will turn to player selections, coaching strategy, and preparations, all aimed at reclaiming regional glory and restoring the pride of a footballing powerhouse.
With the 2025 edition promising fierce competition, the question remains: Can Zambia rise again?
One thing is certain, history, pressure, and passion will all take the field when Chipolopolo returns to chase their eighth COSAFA crown.
