Zambia’s second qualifier arrives only four days after a difficult start in Algeria. Fashion Sakala brought Chipolopolo level in the 57th minute, but goals from Ibrahim Maza and Anis Hadj Moussa gave the hosts a 3–1 victory. Togo, meanwhile, opened Group I with a 1–0 win over Burundi. cafonline.com
That leaves Zambia with an immediate task at home: turn a promising spell against Algeria into a performance that lasts the full match. Sakala’s equaliser showed Zambia can trouble strong opponents, but conceding twice after drawing level made their recovery short-lived.
David Simukonda’s contribution from the bench in Algeria gives the technical team a selection question. His introduction helped Zambia attack with more purpose, and a starting place against Togo would be one way to build on that second-half improvement. Zambia will also need to defend transitions more firmly while pushing for a goal.
Togo arrive with confidence and three points. Coach Patrice Neveu’s squad includes experienced captain Djene Dakonam and forwards Kodjo Fodoh Laba and Kévin Denkey. Defender Kennedy Boateng was ruled out of this international window through injury. cafonline.com
A win would put Zambia level with Togo on three points after two matches. A second defeat would leave Chipolopolo with ground to recover when qualification resumes. There is time left in a six-match group campaign, but Tuesday offers Zambia the quickest chance to put the Algeria result behind them. cafonline.com
Match details: Zambia vs Togo, Tuesday 29 September 2026, 18:00 Zambian time. CAF lists the kickoff as 16:00 GMT. cafonline.com
