Chipolopolo Announce Provisional Squad for Crucial World Cup Qualifiers
The Zambia national football team, has unveiled a 27-man provisional squad for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Zambia will face Morocco on June 7 and Tanzania on June 11 in Group E, which also includes Niger, Congo Brazzaville, and Eritrea. The squad selection reflects a strategic blend of experienced veterans and promising new talent as Zambia aims to strengthen its position in the qualifiers.
Current Group E Standings
1. Morocco 3 points
2. Zambia 3 points
3. Niger 3 points
4. Tanzania 3 points
5. Congo 3 points
6. Eritrea 0 points
With two games already played, Zambia has one win and one loss:
• Win: 4-2 against Congo Brazzaville at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola.
• Loss: 2-1 to Niger, played at a neutral venue in Morocco due to Niger’s stadium issues.
Eritrea has withdrawn from the qualifiers, citing the risk of players fleeing during international duty. Consequently, Tanzania will have a bye when Zambia faces Morocco.
Squad Breakdown
Goalkeepers
• Charlse Kulumba
• Lawrence Mulenga
• Victor Chabu
• Toaster Nsabata
The goalkeeping department is marked by a combination of seasoned and up-and-coming players, with Lawrence Mulenga likely to be the primary choice, supported by the promising talents of Charlse Kulumba, Toaster Nsabata , and Victor Chabu.
Defenders
• Stoppilla Sunzu
• Kabaso Chongo
• Killian Kanguluma
• Frankie Musonda
• Tandi Mwape
• Gift Mpande
• Luka Banda
Despite some injuries and fitness issues among natural full-backs, the defense is solidly anchored by experienced players like Stoppilla Sunzu and Kabaso Chongo. The younger defenders, including Frankie Musonda and Luka Banda, are expected to step up and fill the gaps.
Midfielders
• Benson Sakala
• Miguel Chaiwa
• Obino Chasala
• Lubambo Musonda
• Abraham Siankombo
• Kelvin Kapumbu
• Emmanuel Banda
• Kings Kangwa
• Joshua Mutale
• Kelvin Kampamba
• Gamphani Lungu
The midfield showcases a dynamic mix of defensive anchors and creative playmakers. Benson Sakala and Miguel Chaiwa will likely handle defensive duties, while Lubambo Musonda and Emmanuel Banda are expected to spearhead the attacking initiatives. Versatile players like Kings Kangwa and Kelvin Kampamba provide additional tactical options.
Strikers
• Patson Daka
• Evans Kangwa
• Kingstone Mutandwa
• Edward Chilufya
• Kennedy Musonda
The striking force is led by the prolific Patson Daka, whose pace and finishing skills are invaluable. Evans Kangwa and Edward Chilufya add experience and versatility, while Kingstone Mutandwa and Kennedy Musonda bring depth to the forward line.
The Chipolopolo will begin their local training camp on June 1 in Lusaka before departing for Morocco. The coaching staff faces the challenge of addressing the absence of natural full-backs, with Benedict Chipeshi injured and Zephaniah Phiri lacking match fitness. The coach is confident in finding a solution within the camp to ensure the team’s defensive stability.
The match against Morocco on June 7 is a critical test of Zambia’s preparations and tactical prowess. Following this, the Chipolopolo will face Tanzania on June 11, aiming to secure vital points and improve their standing in Group E.
As Zambia gears up for these pivotal qualifiers, the nation’s hopes rest on the blend of seasoned professionals and emerging talents in the provisional squad. With robust preparations and strategic adjustments, the Chipolopolo are poised to make a significant impact in their quest for World Cup qualification. The entire nation stands behind the team, confident in their potential to achieve great success on the international stage.
