Christopher Katongo: AFCON has grown in quality, identity and belief

Christopher Katongo says AFCON has become a stage where every nation carries a genuine belief it can win.

The Zambia legend, captain during the country’s historic triumph in 2012, sees the competition as far more than a football tournament.

“It stands as proof of Africa’s football depth and soul,” Katongo says. “Every country that qualifies earns genuine respect.”

Zambia’s 2012 victory remains one of AFCON’s most emotional stories. Katongo says the impact changed an entire generation in his country.

“After we won, young players stopped dreaming small,” he explains. “They started to believe big moments belong to them too.”

Katongo believes the tournament now demands more than grit. He says preparation levels have shifted to a higher standard.

“Players today train harder, think sharper, and play smarter,” he says. “They come into AFCON with tactical awareness and physical readiness.”

The former Chipolopolo skipper also highlights the growth brought by African footballers competing abroad.

“When players test themselves in top leagues, they return with game knowledge, speed of thought, and confidence,” he notes.

He insists that this global exposure raises the tournament’s competitive edge.

“It makes every match heavy,” Katongo adds. “There are no weak teams anymore.”

He strongly believes Southern African teams now compete without inferiority.

“The regional gap keeps shrinking,” he says. “Any team can shock the continent if they trust themselves.”

He references Zambia’s own path in 2012, which shattered predictions at every turn.

“We won because we trusted the group, not the odds,” he reflects.

Katongo also points to the role of fan culture in AFCON’s identity shift.

“Support today lives beyond stadium walls,” he says. “Fans now create the atmosphere online, on phones, and in every football debate.”

He calls the digital era a louder megaphone for African football energy.

“You feel the tournament in every city, even if matches happen far away,” he adds.

As AFCON 2025 approaches in Morocco, Katongo urges players to think beyond individual talent.

“Skill opens doors,” he explains. “Unity wins trophies.”

He stresses that harmony inside a squad weighs more than any single star performance.

“A dressing room that fights for each other carries more power than one hero,” he says.

He also calls the upcoming tournament a cultural moment, not just a sporting one.

“This event showcases identity, pride, rhythm, and belief,” he continues. “It reminds the world of Africa’s football heartbeat.”

Katongo expects Morocco 2025 to follow the same unpredictable script AFCON always delivers.

“The surprises will come,” he predicts. “They always come.”

He says that uncertainty is the tournament’s biggest gift.

“It rewards belief, resilience, and brotherhood,” he says.

His final message carries simplicity and sincerity.

“Work hard. Play together. Stay humble. The rest becomes history.”