Morocco Touch Down in Ndola for Zambia Showdown
The football spotlight has shifted to Ndola, where North African giants Morocco have just landed ahead of their much-anticipated clash with Zambia in the FIFA 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The atmosphere is already charged with excitement, and all eyes are set on Levy Mwanawasa Stadium, where the showdown will take place on Monday.
Morocco, famously remembered as semi-finalists at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, have continued to prove why they are considered one of Africa’s strongest teams. Their qualification for next year’s edition of the World Cup, which will be staged across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, was already secured on Friday. That confirmation came after a resounding 5-0 victory over Niger, a result that showcased both their dominance and depth. Arriving in Ndola just two days later, the Atlas Lions are being viewed as clear favorites, not just for this match but also for advancing deep into the tournament once again.
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For Zambia, however, the stakes remain very high. The Chipolopolo, guided by experienced coach Avram Grant, are not entirely out of the running. Their path to the World Cup is narrow, but it still exists. Zambia must collect maximum points from their remaining fixtures in order to keep their hopes alive. If they succeed, they could secure one of the four slots available for the continental playoff. From there, the winner would progress to the intercontinental playoff, which serves as the final hurdle to the World Cup.
FIFA’s expansion of Africa’s automatic slots from five to ten has opened up opportunities for more nations, but Zambia currently finds itself in a tough spot. Group E standings place Morocco firmly at the top with 18 points. Tanzania follow with 10 points, while Zambia sit on 6, level with Niger, and Congo trail with just 1. It means Zambia cannot afford any slip-ups. Monday’s clash against Morocco is more than just a game—it is a do-or-die situation.
After this match, the Copper Bullets will face Tanzania away in October before returning home to host Niger. The outcome of these fixtures will decide whether Zambian football fans can dare to dream of a return to the world stage.
On the other side, Morocco has been enjoying their status as group leaders and have traveled with confidence. The Atlas Lions are expected to use the match to maintain their rhythm and test their squad depth as they prepare for bigger challenges ahead.
As kickoff approaches, anticipation is building. Levy Mwanawasa Stadium will be buzzing with passionate supporters, and while Morocco are arriving with the comfort of qualification already in their pocket, Zambia will be stepping onto that pitch with their future hanging in the balance. The stage is set for a thrilling encounter.
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