Zambia’s national futsal team is headed to the Morocco 2026 Africa Cup of Nations, having overcome Ghana with an 8-6 aggregate victory.
Their qualification was clinched with a commanding 2-0 home win in Lusaka, a result built upon a high-scoring 6-6 draw in the first leg in Ghana.
From the opening whistle, Zambia controlled the decisive return match, with Patrick Banda scoring inside two minutes to establish an early lead and set the tempo for a composed performance.
Despite consistent pressure from Ghana in search of an equalizer, Zambia’s organized defense held firm. Any lingering suspense was effectively ended in the 24th minute when Musa Chiwaya found the net, his decisive strike allowing Zambia to confidently manage the game to its conclusion.
The victory secures Zambia a second consecutive AFCON appearance, cementing their growing stature in African futsal.
While celebrating the achievement, Head Coach Andrea Cristoforetti immediately shifted focus to the future, demanding higher standards from his squad.
He expressed frustration at numerous missed chances, suggesting the match should have finished 8-0, even as he praised the defensive clean sheet.
Captain Chota Chileshe echoed that qualification was the primary goal, commending the team’s effort while acknowledging the challenges that lie ahead in Morocco.
“This is all we needed. We now need to be supported. This was a tough match but we are happy we have qualified,” Chileshe said.
Ghana coach Philip Boakye conceded defeat and acknowledged Zambia’s improvement.
“Zambia played well. They have improved a lot, they should continue with the way they are playing,” Boakye said.
Ghana captain Timothy Kantanka said Zambia were the better side and deserved the win.
