Zesco United have once again proven their continental pedigree after booking a spot in the CAF Confederation Cup group stage for the third time in the club’s history. The Ndola-based giants secured qualification following a 1–1 draw against Botswana’s Jwaneng Galaxy in Gaborone, sealing a 5–4 aggregate victory over two legs. This result marks another proud chapter in the club’s rich continental history, reaffirming their status as one of Zambia’s most consistent representatives in African football.
Heading into the return leg with a slim 3–2 advantage from the first leg at home, Zesco United needed only to avoid defeat in Botswana to progress. Despite facing a determined Galaxy side that pushed forward aggressively, the Zambian champions remained composed under pressure. Chad international Amine Hiver gave Zesco a crucial lead in the 45th minute, finishing off a well-worked move to silence the home crowd.
Galaxy, however, continued to threaten and came close on several occasions. Their persistence finally paid off in the 82nd minute when Thabang Sesinyi found the equalizer, giving the hosts hope of a late comeback. But Zesco’s defense, marshaled by Adrian Chama and Solomon Sakala, held firm to keep the score level and protect their aggregate lead until the final whistle.
Head coach Emmanuel Siwale expressed pride in his side’s discipline and focus throughout the tie, emphasizing the importance of experience at this stage of the competition.
“The players showed great character, especially away from home. We came here knowing what was at stake, and I’m proud that we achieved our goal,” Siwale said after the match.
Zesco’s qualification not only extends their impressive continental record but also provides a morale boost for the team heading into domestic duties in the MTN Super League. Siwale also highlighted the financial and reputational impact of reaching the group stage, saying the club aims to go further than before.
By reaching the group stage, Zesco United have guaranteed themselves at least $400,000 (approximately K15 million) from CAF in participation bonuses. This milestone marks their third appearance in the CAF Confederation Cup group phase, following their runs in 2017 and 2019.
In those previous campaigns, Zesco made it as far as the quarterfinals, and supporters will be eager to see if the current generation can replicate or surpass that achievement. With the team’s attacking prowess led by Hiver, John Ching’andu, and Kelvin Kampamba, Zesco appear well-equipped to challenge Africa’s best once again.
The CAF Confederation Cup group stage draw is set for November 3, 2025, in Johannesburg, South Africa. Zesco United will learn their group opponents during the live event at the SuperSport Studios in Randburg. The Ndola giants are expected to face tough opposition from North and West Africa but will carry renewed confidence after overcoming Jwaneng Galaxy’s challenge.
Zesco United’s qualification is a significant victory not just for the club but for Zambian football as a whole. Their consistency on the continental stage demonstrates the growth and resilience of local clubs competing in CAF competitions. As the Ndola outfit prepares for the next chapter, fans will be hopeful that this campaign can produce another deep run — perhaps even beyond the quarterfinals this time around.
