Chipolopolo captain Kings Kangwa admitted that Zambia’s costly errors led to their 2–0 defeat to Morocco in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at the near-capacity Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola.
Zambia had hoped to upset the Atlas Lions and climb into second place in Group E, but the visitors, who had already secured qualification, proved too clinical and punished Chipolopolo’s lapses.
Schoolboy Errors Hand Morocco Victory
The match got off to a disastrous start for Zambia when Miguel Chaiwa’s back pass to goalkeeper Toaster Nsabata was intercepted by Youssef En-Nesyri, who calmly slotted home in the seventh minute.
Despite Zambia’s efforts to find a way back, Morocco doubled their advantage straight after the restart when Hamza Igamane capitalised to seal the victory in the 46th minute.
Kangwa Reflects on Defeat
Taking to social media after the game, Kangwa expressed his disappointment but urged belief in the team’s long-term prospects:
“We lost the game from our own small mistakes…we must be more responsible in such games…[the] positive side [is that] we have a very good team, let’s keep working hard, and the future ahead of us is definitely bright.”
The defeat leaves Zambia third in Group E with six points, level with Niger, while Tanzania sit second with 10 points. Morocco remain group leaders, having already sealed their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
What’s Next for Chipolopolo?
Zambia’s hopes of reaching the play-offs now hinge on the upcoming October fixtures. Chipolopolo travel to Tanzania on 8 October before wrapping up their group stage campaign against Niger at home on 11 October.
