…..Chipolopolo edge Taifa Stars 1–0 in a hard-fought clash to boost their World Cup2026 Campaign
LUSAKA-(MaraviPost)-Zambia’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup received a major boost on Wednesday night after a crucial 1–0 away win against Tanzania.
The match, played at the Benjamin Mkapa National Stadium in Dar es Salaam, was a tense and physical encounter that kept fans on edge from start to finish.
Zambian striker Fashion Sakala proved to be the difference-maker once again, scoring the only goal of the game to hand Avram Grant’s side all three points.
The goal came midway through the second half after sustained pressure from the Chipolopolo, who looked sharper and more organized as the game progressed.
Sakala latched onto a precise through ball from midfielder Lameck Banda, showing great composure and finishing power to beat the Tanzanian goalkeeper with a low strike into the far corner.
The goal sparked jubilant celebrations among the Zambian players and the traveling fans, who filled a section of the stadium with loud cheers and national pride.
For much of the match, both teams were evenly matched, with Tanzania showing flashes of brilliance through captain Mbwana Samatta and winger Simon Msuva.
However, Zambia’s defense, marshaled by experienced centre-back Stoppila Sunzu, held firm to deny the Taifa Stars any clear scoring opportunities.
Goalkeeper Toaster Nsabata also played a vital role, making two important saves in the closing stages to preserve Zambia’s slender lead.
Avram Grant, Zambia’s head coach, praised his team’s discipline and tactical awareness after the match, saying the players showed maturity and resilience under pressure.
He emphasized that every point counts in the World Cup qualifying campaign and commended his squad for sticking to the game plan despite the intimidating atmosphere in Dar es Salaam.
For Tanzania, the defeat was a disappointing setback after a promising start to their qualification journey.
Coach Adel Amrouche lamented his team’s missed chances and defensive lapses but remained optimistic that the Taifa Stars could bounce back in their upcoming fixtures.
The victory lifts Zambia higher up the Group standings, positioning them well for the next phase of the #WCQ2026 campaign.
It also restores confidence among Zambian fans, who had been demanding consistency and a clear sense of direction under Grant’s leadership.
Fashion Sakala’s goal adds to his growing reputation as one of Zambia’s most dependable forwards on the international stage.
The Al-Fayha forward has been in fine form, combining pace, power, and precision to deliver in crucial matches for both club and country.
This result marks Zambia’s second consecutive clean sheet, a sign that the team’s defensive structure is improving after earlier concerns about leaking goals.
It also underlines the team’s growing chemistry, with young talents such as Kings Kangwa, Frankie Musonda, and Emmanuel Banda stepping up to support the senior players.
The win in Dar es Salaam will undoubtedly serve as a confidence booster ahead of Zambia’s next World Cup qualifying fixture.
Chipolopolo fans across Zambia and abroad celebrated the result, taking to social media to praise the team’s fighting spirit and Fashion Sakala’s brilliance.
The victory not only strengthens Zambia’s position in the qualifying group but also revives national belief that the team can finally make it to the World Cup for the first time in history.
As the road to 2026 continues, Zambia’s focus will shift to maintaining consistency, improving goal conversion, and ensuring that every point earned counts toward their long-awaited World Cup dream.
For now, Avram Grant and his players can savor a well-earned victory — one achieved through hard work, teamwork, and a touch of Fashion Sakala magic.
