Zambia to play World Cup bound South Africa, Burundi in friendlies

Zambia national team have secured two international friendly matches during the November FIFA window as part of their preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) slated for Morocco in December.

According to Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) Secretary General Machacha Shepande, the Chipolopolo will play World Cup bound South Africa and Burundi as part of the team’s continued preparation for Morocco.

Zambia will face Morocco, Mali, Comoros in AFCON

“The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has organised two high profile international friendly matches for the Chipolopolo during the upcoming FIFA Window which runs from 10-18 November,” said Shepande as quoted by FAZ Media.

“Zambia will play South Africa on November 15 before heading to Bujumbura for the Burundi assignment three days later.”

He further said the games would be important for Zambia’s AFCON preparation and all the top players will participate. Shepande added that FAZ was determined to ensure the Chipolopolo turned up at the 2025 AFCON well prepared for the assignment.

The friendly will be the first for Zambia minus veteran coach Avram Grant who was shown the exit after failing to guide the nation to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Zambia is in Group A alongside Morocco, Mali and Comoros for the Morocco 2025 AFCON edition, which runs from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026. They will kick off their campaign against Mali on December 22, before taking on Comoros on December 25.

Zambia’s final group fixture will be against hosts Morocco on December 29.

⚽ Follow Pan-Africa Football across platforms for real-time news and stories.