What Has Gone Wrong with Zambian Football? –A perspective through the lense of an observer outside the Zambian game
Zambian football, once a formidable force in African sports, has seen a decline that has left fans and analysts alike questioning the underlying causes. The nation’s football identity, once characterised by skill, physicality, and tactical discipline, seems to have eroded over time. This begs the question: what has gone wrong with Zambian football? My perspective therefore is as follows;
Recruitment and Scouting Issues.
One of the core issues lies within the recruitment and scouting departments of Zambian clubs. As observed by many football pundits, the current crop of players often lacks the physical presence that once defined Zambian teams. The modern Zambian player is frequently described as short, frail, or weak—a stark contrast to the imposing figures of past legends like Elija Litana, Andrew Tembo, and Moses Sichone. This shift in player physique raises concerns about the criteria used in scouting. Football analyst, Jonathan Wilson, once noted, “The physical attributes of players are not just a matter of natural selection; they reflect the choices made by scouts and coaches in shaping the future of the game.”
In neighboring countries, a noticeable improvement in player physique and strength is evident, making the once formidable Zambian teams appear less competitive. The preference for smaller players who struggle in physical encounters is a significant departure from the days when Zambian footballers were renowned for their toughness and resilience on the field.
Technical Weaknesses.
Another major problem lies in the technical deficiencies that have become increasingly apparent in Zambian football. Gone are the days when the phrase “mpila and bola panshi” symbolized the intricate passing and possession-based play that was a hallmark of Zambian teams. Today, Zambian teams struggle to maintain possession, often being dominated by opponents who exploit these weaknesses.
Furthermore, the lack of effective ball winners and players capable of marking opponents throughout a match has become a glaring issue. This shortcoming is evident in the frequent defensive lapses that have plagued Zambian teams, leading to early exits from major competitions. As football writer Michael Cox aptly put it, “In modern football, the ability to press and win the ball back is as crucial as scoring goals. Without it, teams are vulnerable.”
Over-Rotation and Player Recycling.
Lastly, the over-rotation of players within Zambian football structures is a troubling trend. Players who have consistently underperformed often find themselves recruited repeatedly by different teams within the same league, leading to stagnation rather than progress. This practice hinders the development of new talent and prevents the emergence of players who could potentially elevate the standard of Zambian football.
Conclusion.
The decline of Zambian football can be attributed to a combination of poor recruitment practices, technical weaknesses, and the persistent recycling of underperforming players. To restore the nation’s footballing pride, there must be a concerted effort to address these issues. Zambian football must return to its roots—emphasising physicality, skill, and tactical discipline—if it is to reclaim its place among the elite in African football. As the legendary football writer Simon Kuper once said, “Football is not just about winning; it’s about how you win.” The time has come for Zambia to rediscover how to win.
By Sylvester Soopu SS