Rabat – Zambia defeated Tanzania 1–0 in Round 9 of the African World Cup qualifiers in Group E at Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar, ending Tanzania’s hopes of reaching the 2026 World Cup.
Fashion Sakala scored the only goal in the game in the 75th minute, after an assist from Lubambo Musonda, to give Zambia the lead.
Zambia held 54% possession and registered 11 shots, with 4 on target. Tanzania managed 7 shots, 2 of which were on target, and committed 15 fouls compared to Zambia’s 13.
80,Tanzania 🇹🇿 0️⃣ – 1️⃣ 🇿🇲 Zambia #FIFAWorldCupQualifier| @taifastars_ @FIFAWorldCup @CAF_Online pic.twitter.com/pj1IOsWZqL
— TFF TANZANIA (@Tanfootball) October 8, 2025
Zambia still has a game left and will face Niger in a decisive final match. With Zambia currently on 9 points and Niger on 12, a win for Zambia would bring them level on points.
However, goal difference and head-to-head results will determine who finishes second.
The match will be played on Sunday, October 12, at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Zambia.
Morocco has already secured qualification as group leaders. The outcome of Zambia vs Niger will decide who claims second place and keeps their hopes alive for a playoff spot.
The four best runners-up across all groups will advance to a CAF playoff round. From that mini-tournament, just one team will emerge to represent Africa in the inter-confederation playoff, where they’ll face opponents from other continents for a final chance to secure a World Cup spot
