AFCON: Zambia's record edition by edition | OneFootball

AFCON: Zambia's history in the Africa Cup of Nations

AFCON: Zambia's record edition by edition

Zambia boasts one of the most emotionally charged stories in the history of the Africa Cup of Nations. As early as 1974, the Chipolopolo announced themselves by reaching the final, gradually establishing their reputation as credible outsiders capable of shaking up the established order. Regular contenders throughout the 1980s and 1990s, they often flirted with the summit, collecting podium finishes and consistently strong campaigns.

The defining moment in their identity remains the tragic plane crash of 1993, which left an indelible mark on Zambian football. Yet, the team managed to rebuild, eventually writing one of the most beautiful chapters in AFCON history in 2012 with an unexpected and symbolic triumph, celebrated as a national tribute. Since then, the squad has alternated between returns to the final stages and periods of struggle, never losing their status as a respected team.

Qualified for AFCON 2025, Zambia hopes to capitalize on this collective memory and regain the consistency that has so often allowed them to shine at Africa’s biggest tournaments.

Here’s a recap of Zambia’s AFCON appearances: