Buoyed by last week’s result, ZESCO United coach Mathews Ndhlovu says he is optimistic of a strong CAF Confederation Cup (CAFCC) group-stage finish when facing Al Masry in Egypt on Saturday.

The coach said this as the Zambian cup kings prepare to conclude Group D assignments with a meeting against the Egyptian Premier League opponents. The ABSA Cup winners stand no chance of qualifying for the Confederation Cup quarterfinals.

🎞️ Match Highlights:
Hiver’s goal from the spot secure ZESCO United FC’s first 3 points of the season vs Zamalek SC. 👏#TotalEnergiesCAFCC pic.twitter.com/Vw8IbfIgGS

— TotalEnergies CAFCL & CAFCC 🏆 (@CAFCLCC) February 8, 2026

Team Ya Ziko anchor the pool with three points from five games, while second-from-the bottom Al Masry have seven points. Kaizer Chiefs top the table on 10 points, two ahead of Zamalek SC.

Chiefs will date Zamalek

This means the furthest United can take their tally is six points, not enough to make it into the last-eight stage. Therefore, at this stage, it is all about playing for pride.

Ahead of the game, Ndhlovu and his captain Lindo Mkhonta said they had done their homework on Al Masry and hope the players will executive the game-plan to perfection.

In a statement shared on United’s Facebook page, the coach cited the team’s preparation, mentality and collective hunger to deliver a positive performance.

“Ndhlovu emphasised the importance of discipline, focus and executing the game-plan, noting that the team has prepared well and is fully aware of what is required at this stage of the competition. He reaffirmed confidence in the squad, highlighting the balance between experience and youthful energy,” reads part of the statement.

Mkhonta sends message of hope to supporters

Mkhonta has since assured United fans that the players are motivated, united and ready to fight for the badge. He added that the team understands the responsibility of representing the club and the nation and will give everything on the pitch.

After going four games without a win in the group, United beat Zamalek SC 1-0 on Saturday courtesy of Chadian striker Amine Hiver’s second-half goal at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola.

The result deposed Zamalek from top to second place of the pool with Kaizer Chiefs going top following their 2-1 victory over Al Masry.

Chiefs will date Zamalek in the group’s other match this weekend.

ZESCO United vs Al Masry: Ndhlovu Targets Strong CAF Confederation Cup Finish

Buoyed by last week’s morale-boosting victory, ZESCO United coach Mathews Ndhlovu says his side is determined to secure a strong finish in the CAF Confederation Cup when they face Al Masry in Egypt on Saturday.

Although the Zambian ABSA Cup champions have already been eliminated from quarterfinal contention, Ndhlovu insists the fixture remains crucial for pride, reputation, and future continental ambitions.

ZESCO United currently anchor Group D with three points from five matches. Their Egyptian opponents Al Masry sit second from bottom with seven points, while Kaizer Chiefs top the table with 10 points, just two ahead of Zamalek SC.

Even with a win against Al Masry, ZESCO United can only reach six points — mathematically insufficient to progress to the CAF Confederation Cup quarterfinals.

ZESCO United vs Al Masry: Playing for Pride in CAF Confederation Cup

The upcoming clash in Egypt is more about pride and restoring confidence than qualification hopes.

After enduring four matches without a win in Group D, ZESCO United finally claimed their first victory of the campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Zamalek SC at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola. Chadian striker Amine Hiver converted from the penalty spot in the second half to secure all three points.

That victory not only revived team morale but also reshaped the group standings. Zamalek dropped from first to second place, while Kaizer Chiefs moved to the summit following their 2-1 win over Al Masry.

Coach Ndhlovu believes that momentum from that performance can carry into the encounter against Al Masry.

Ndhlovu Confident Ahead of ZESCO United vs Al Masry Clash

In a statement shared via the club’s official channels, Ndhlovu emphasized discipline, focus, and strict execution of the tactical plan as key ingredients for success.

“Ndhlovu emphasised the importance of discipline, focus and executing the game-plan, noting that the team has prepared well and is fully aware of what is required at this stage of the competition. He reaffirmed confidence in the squad, highlighting the balance between experience and youthful energy,” the statement read.

The coach pointed out that while qualification is no longer possible, finishing strongly in the CAF Confederation Cup is important for the club’s continental standing and player development.

Facing Al Masry away from home presents a significant challenge, especially given the Egyptian side’s physical style and tactical discipline. However, Ndhlovu believes his players have done adequate homework on their opponents.

Captain Lindo Mkhonta Sends Message to ZESCO United Fans

ZESCO United captain Lindo Mkhonta echoed his coach’s sentiments, assuring supporters that the squad remains united and motivated.

Mkhonta said the team understands the responsibility of representing both the club and Zambia on the continental stage. He promised that the players will give everything in the final group match.

The skipper emphasized the importance of finishing the CAF Confederation Cup campaign on a high note, especially after a difficult group phase.

“We are motivated, united and ready to fight for the badge,” Mkhonta reportedly told fans.

Group D Situation in CAF Confederation Cup

While ZESCO United prepare for their trip to Egypt, the group’s other decisive fixture will see Kaizer Chiefs take on Zamalek SC. Chiefs currently lead the pool on 10 points, with Zamalek close behind.

Al Masry, with seven points, still hold an outside chance of qualification depending on results elsewhere.

For ZESCO United, however, the objective is clear — end the campaign with dignity and build momentum for domestic competitions.

What ZESCO United Can Gain From This CAF Confederation Cup Match

Although elimination has already been confirmed, the clash against Al Masry offers several positives:

• Restoring confidence after a challenging group stage

• Providing valuable international exposure to younger players

• Improving CAF coefficient ranking

• Ending the campaign on a competitive note

The recent victory over Zamalek demonstrated that Team Ya Ziko still possess the quality to compete at this level.

Final Thoughts on ZESCO United vs Al Masry

The ZESCO United vs Al Masry encounter may not alter Group D qualification scenarios for the Zambian side, but it carries emotional and symbolic weight.

For Mathews Ndhlovu and his squad, it is an opportunity to show resilience, professionalism, and growth on the continental stage.

As the CAF Confederation Cup group stage concludes, ZESCO United will aim to return from Egypt with pride intact and confidence restored.