By A Special Correspondent
Zambia earned unimportant win kept their 2026 FIFA World Cup hopes alive with a crucial 1–0 away win over Tanzania in Round 9 of the African qualifiers (Group E), held at Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar on October 8.
The result officially eliminates Tanzania from the race, while setting up a dramatic final clash between Zambia and Niger that will determine who finishes second in the group.
A tactical battle in Zanzibar
In a tense, tightly contested match, the decisive moment came in the 75th minute when Fashion Sakala capitalised on a sharp assist from Lubambo Musonda to put Zambia ahead.
The Chipolopolo showed greater attacking intent, controlling 54 percent of possession and registering 11 shots (four on target), compared to Tanzania’s seven attempts with only two on the mark.
Despite their physical presence and home advantage, Tanzania struggled to break down Zambia’s disciplined defense. The Taifa Stars committed 15 fouls – more than Zambia’s 13 – highlighting the pressure they faced throughout the match.
What this means for Tanzania
The loss marks the end of the road for Tanzania’s World Cup qualifying journey. Their campaign had moments of promise, including a notable 1–0 win over Zambia in the reverse fixture in June 2024.
However, inconsistency and a lack of firepower in key matches ultimately cost them a chance to compete on football’s biggest stage.
Tanzania’s elimination also reflects a broader challenge for East African teams in World Cup qualifying – struggling to convert strong regional performances into consistent continental success.
Morocco through, race for second heats up
Morocco has already secured top spot in Group E, sealing direct qualification to the 2026 World Cup with a game to spare. The battle now shifts to who finishes second – a position that could still offer a path to the global stage.
Zambia’s win lifts them to 9 points, three behind Niger, who currently sit second with 12 points. The two sides will meet in a decisive final group match on Sunday, October 12 at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola, Zambia.
A win for Zambia would bring both teams level on points, pushing the race to tiebreakers such as goal difference and head-to-head results. Second place matters – the four best runners-up across all groups will advance to a CAF playoff round, and from there, only one team will emerge to represent Africa in the inter-confederation playoff, a last shot at qualifying for the World Cup.
What’s at stake
For Zambia, the path is still narrow but open. They must win convincingly against Niger to strengthen their chances of becoming one of the top runners-up across the continent. For Tanzania, the focus now shifts to rebuilding and reflecting on a campaign that showed potential but fell short when it mattered most. As the qualifiers reach their climax, Group E promises one more twist – Zambia’s final stand in Ndola could determine whether their World Cup dream lives on.
