THE DECLINE OF ZESCO UNITED – A REALITY CHECK
Written by: Bwezani Mbewe
ZESCO United has long been a cornerstone of Zambian football, recognized for their dominance in domestic competitions and consistent participation in continental tournaments. However, their recent early exit from the 2024-2025 CAF Confederation Cup raises critical concerns about the club’s current state. This defeat, coupled with a similar disappointment in the 2022-2023 season, suggests that ZESCO United may no longer be the force they once were.
A Troubling Pattern
In the 2022-2023 CAF Confederation Cup, ZESCO United was granted a bye to the second round—obviously due to their historical success. Yet, when faced with Royal AM of Eswatini, the team struggled, managing only two draws (0-0 away and 1-1 at home) and exiting on away goals. Fast forward to the 2024-2025 edition, and the story is no different. ZESCO United faced Dynamos FC of Zimbabwe, a tie many expected them to win comfortably. Instead, they failed to score across both legs, losing 1-0 on aggregate and exiting the competition prematurely once again.
Comparison with FC MUZA:
In contrast to ZESCO United’s recent struggles, FC MUZA, a relatively newer force in Zambian football, has shown more promise in the CAF Confederation Cup. While ZESCO United was eliminated in the first round with a 1-0 aggregate loss to Dynamos FC, FC MUZA managed to progress past the first round with a convincing 4-1 aggregate victory, including a solid 3-0 win at home. Although FC MUZA eventually exited the competition in the second round, their overall performance, including their ability to score and secure a comprehensive win, shows growing competitiveness that has eluded ZESCO United in recent campaigns. This stark contrast shows the shifting dynamics in Zambian football, where emerging teams are beginning to challenge the established order. Red Arrows has given us that example and already through to the next round of the CAF Champions League.
The Dangers of Relying on Reputation
ZESCO United’s recent struggles just tells us the dangers of relying too heavily on past achievements. There was a widespread belief last season that ZESCO United, with their storied history, would be better representatives for Zambia in continental competitions than up-and-coming teams like FC MUZA. However, football is a results-driven sport, and recent form is often more important than historical prestige. While FC MUZA managed to advance past the first round of the CAF Confederation Cup with a 4-1 aggregate victory, ZESCO United’s reputation alone could not carry them through their challenges.
A Call for Reflection and Renewal
ZESCO United’s back-to-back failures in CAF competitions should serve as a wake-up call. The Zambian football landscape is evolving, with new teams rising to challenge the established order. For ZESCO United, this is a critical moment to reassess their strategy. The club must recognize that historical success is no longer sufficient and that renewed focus on player development, tactical innovation, and squad strengthening is essential to reclaim their place at the top.
My thought is ZESCO United’s early exit from the CAF Confederation Cup just enlightens us the need for a reality check. The club’s name still carries weight, but reputation alone will not secure victories.
Anyway, we need to start to believe that its possible the end of an era and reality has dawned that Maybe just Maybe ZESCO United is not as good as we thought they are!
