Few moments in African football history shine brighter than Zambia’s 2012 TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations triumph.
At the heart of that unforgettable journey was Christopher Katongo, the inspirational captain who led Chipolopolo to continental glory in Libreville.
More than a decade later, Katongo remains one of Africa’s most respected football icons, celebrated for his heroics at both club and national team level. As the continent looks ahead to AFCON Morocco 2025, he reflects on his experiences, the evolution of the tournament, and what makes African football so unique.
For Katongo, the 2012 victory was more than a trophy—it was a lesson in respect and resilience.
“Winning AFCON in 2012 changed everything — not just for me, but for our entire country,” he recalls. “That tournament taught us that there are no small teams in Africa. Every nation that qualifies deserves respect. Determination, unity, and belief can take you all the way, no matter where you come from.”
Katongo believes AFCON stands apart from other international tournaments because of its cultural depth.
“AFCON is special because it reflects the rich cultures of our continent. Every edition has its own identity — from the fans to the rhythm of the matches. It’s not just about football; it’s about pride, history, and representing your people.”
The 2012 triumph sparked a new wave of ambition in Zambian football.
“That victory inspired a whole generation,” Katongo says. “Young players began to believe they could make it to the top. Across Africa, smaller nations started approaching the tournament with more confidence and ambition.”
Since his playing days, Katongo has witnessed AFCON’s intensity grow.
“The level has definitely gone up. Players now come better prepared — physically, mentally, and tactically,” he explains. “Exposure has been the biggest driver. AFCON has become a global showcase for African talent, giving players a platform to shine and raising the standard of the game.”
Katongo is optimistic about the region’s prospects.
“Southern African teams have improved a lot. The gap between regions is closing, and every team that qualifies has a chance. If they stay disciplined and believe in their style of play, there’s no reason they can’t go all the way again — just like we did in 2012.”
The former captain also highlights how fan engagement has transformed the tournament.
“The atmosphere keeps getting better with every edition. The fans bring unmatched energy, and the passion is on another level now. Social media has extended African football conversations to the world, making AFCON even more vibrant.”
Katongo insists that teamwork remains the ultimate key to success.
“Talent alone isn’t enough — it’s the team spirit that wins tournaments. You have to train together, fight for one another, and stay united no matter what. That’s the lesson from our 2012 journey.”
As Morocco prepares to host AFCON 2025, Katongo sees the tournament as a symbol of unity and pride.
“AFCON is already one of the biggest tournaments in the world. The quality of football, the organization, and the global audience all continue to improve. It’s our biggest trophy as Africans, and we should be proud of it. My hope is that AFCON continues to bring Africa together — showcasing our talent, our culture, and our passion for the game.”
Culled from CAFonline.com