It’s not an excuse, but I didn’t like the way the referee handled the game – Moses Sichone

Chipolopolo coach Moses Sichone has expressed disappointment with the standard of officiating following Zambia’s elimination from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, saying some decisions in their final Group A match left him frustrated, although he insisted this was not the reason the team exited the tournament.

Zambia bowed out of the AFCON at the group stage after finishing winless, as hosts Morocco and Mali sealed qualification to the next round, leaving Chipolopolo and Comoros out of contention.

Speaking after the match, Sichone admitted that emotions got the better of him on the touchline due to what he felt were questionable refereeing decisions, but stating that Zambia must also take responsibility for failing to get the results they needed.

“It’s not an excuse, but I didn’t like the way the referee handled the game, and that’s why I was upset over some of the decisions,” Sichone said.

The Chipolopolo gaffer said the tournament had shown areas that need serious attention going forward, particularly the need to gradually refresh the squad by allowing younger players to step up and take responsibility at senior level.