Zambia’s Football Renaissance: From Qualifying to Competing – Mweetwa Calls for Strategic Shift

Zambia is undergoing a football resurgence, and one of the country’s former football icons, Nchimunya Mweetwa, believes it’s time to move from merely qualifying for tournaments to becoming serious contenders.

Once a mainstay in Africa’s top football competitions, Zambia has a proud history marked by consistent qualifications and major milestones—including the U20 squad’s appearances at the FIFA World Cup in 2007 and 2017, and of course, the historic Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) triumph in 2012. However, the years that followed were marked by missed qualifications and a decline in form.

Now, Mweetwa says, the tide is turning.

“We’ve gone from struggling to qualify to now making it a regular feature. That’s a sign of progress,” said Mweetwa, a former Chipolopolo striker known for his sharp instincts in front of goal. “But qualifying alone is not enough. It’s time we start thinking about competing, and winning, at the highest level.”

Mweetwa credits the current technical leadership at the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) for laying a strong foundation. Youth teams are qualifying for continental events, and the senior national team is once again a force to be reckoned with on the African stage.

“We now need to focus on reaching the knockout stages, the last eight, and eventually the semi-finals. Our past success proves we have the talent, it’s the mindset and structure that need to evolve.”

According to Mweetwa, a sustained transformation in Zambian football will require more than just good players. He champions what he calls the triple ‘S’ formula:

Strategy – “We need a long-term plan for success, not just tournament-by-tournament ambitions.”

Structure – “There must be a proper foundation at grassroots and club level to support growth.”

Systems – “Efficient processes that ensure continuity, accountability, and development.”

Mweetwa also believes club football must rise to the occasion.

“We can’t just rely on the national teams. Our clubs must begin to compete seriously in CAF competitions. That means better management, support systems, and investment.”

As Zambia sets its sights on future AFCONs and potential World Cup participation, Mweetwa insists that hard work, discipline, and vision will be key.

“We’ve shown Africa what we’re capable of before. With the right mindset, there’s no reason we can’t do it again, and do it even better.”