Zambia and Niger Clash in Final World Cup Qualifier

Ndola, Zambia — Zambia faces Niger on Sunday in their final match of the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium. The game, set for October 12, comes after both teams have struggled in Group E, with Zambia currently holding nine points from seven matches.

This match is largely symbolic for both sides, as qualification has already eluded them. Both teams seek to finish as runners-up in the group, which nevertheless would not yield a playoff spot.

Zambia’s recent performance is a rollercoaster; after kicking off the year with a promising 3-0 victory over Congo, they suffered an eight-game winless streak, with seven losses. However, they broke that streak with a 1-0 win against Tanzania earlier this week, thereby reviving some hopes.

Their recent game saw Zambia manage a clean sheet — their first in nine matches — highlighting a potential turnaround in form. Coach Avram Grant’s Chipolopolo will be keen to capitalize on this momentum and seek revenge against Niger, who previously bested them 2-1 in 2023.

Niger, coached by Ezzaki Badou, comes into the match with 12 points after back-to-back victories against Tanzania and Congo Republic, following a heavy defeat against Morocco. Their recent winning streak provides a confidence boost, but they must navigate the pressure of being overtaken in the standings if they slip.

The match will showcase notable players, including Zambia’s Fashion Sakala, who scored the winning goal against Tanzania, and Niger’s Youssouf Oumarou, who has proven to be a pivotal scorer for his squad.

This final fixture represents a chance for both nations to redeem themselves after a challenging qualifying campaign and to end on a high note for their fans.