Stars confident in Zambia game
ZANZIBAR: TAIFA Stars Head Coach Hemed Suleiman has expressed strong confidence in his squad’s readiness ahead of tonight’s high-stakes FIFA World Cup Qualifier clash against Zambia, to be staged at the New Amaan Complex in Zanzibar.
As anticipation builds across the nation, Suleiman shared his optimism during a press briefing at the team’s training grounds in Zanzibar, applauding the intensity, hunger and unity displayed by players in the camp.
“As you can see, every player is fighting hard to earn a spot in the starting XI. The competition is fierce and that’s exactly what we need ahead of a game of this magnitude,” said Suleiman.
The coach highlighted that all players reported to camp in excellent physical shape and have shown exceptional work ethic and focus throughout training sessions.
“Everyone is healthy, fit and fully engaged. That gives us a great platform to build from,” he said.
“We have a solid group and Inshallah, we’ll deliver a strong performance.” Suleiman, who brings a wealth of tactical experience to the national team, acknowledged the threat Zambia poses but remained confident in the resilience and quality within his squad.
“We respect our opponents, but we believe in our abilities. We’re ready,” he disclosed.
Zambia, meanwhile, will be led by their Europeanbased forward Fashion Sakala (Al-Fayha, Saudi Arabia) and Tanzania-based midfielder Clatous Chama, who returns to the fold after missing the previous match against Morocco.
Sakala, who featured in the 1-0 loss to Morocco, is set to play back-to-back qualifiers for the first time since the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), adding attacking firepower for the Chipolopolo.
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Zambia, currently fourth in Group E with six points, are mathematically eliminated from World Cup contention but remain determined to finish strong and build momentum for AFCON 2025. Group E Standings (After seven and six Games): Morocco lead the group with 21 pts (qualified) followed by Tanzania – 10 pts, Niger – nine points and Zambia – six points.
Zambia now faces Tanzania tonight in Zanzibar before concluding their qualifying campaign against Niger on Sunday, October 12th, at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola, Zambia.
Zambia Head Coach Avram Grant acknowledged his team’s slim qualification hopes but emphasised the value of these fixtures in shaping the team’s identity and future.
“These matches are not just about results,” said Grant.
“They’re about building a system, testing new players and strengthening the team’s overall direction.”
Assistant Coach Billy Mwanza, also a physical trainer at Power Dynamos, stressed the importance of righting past wrongs.
“Tanzania beat us at home and we lost to Niger. We have to respond. These two games are not only about redemption but also excellent preparation for AFCON,” Mwanza noted.
He underlined the need for defensive solidity and attacking sharpness, citing Zambia’s lack of clean sheets as a concern.
“We need to defend better and start converting chances. That’s the only way we’ll be competitive moving forward”
