Zambia vs Togo - Africa Cup of Nations - Qualification

A fascinating Africa Cup of Nations - Qualification chapter awaits on September 29, 2026 when Zambia take on Togo at the home ground — two sides with plenty to play for and everything to prove. The sheer joy on the 18-year-old defender’s face resonated with Paul Schaffran back at the academy.

Both Zambia and Togo will be eager to build momentum when they meet in Africa Cup of Nations - Qualification. The hosts will be looking to find their rhythm and put a run of results together. The visitors will travel in the hope that a change of scene can spark a turnaround, whatever the form book says. Carrick spoke to the media before his captain was seen limping, but did explain why he didn't take him off despite the commanding position his team were in.

How the two sides approach the contest strategically will be key. Zambia will want to control proceedings in front of their own supporters, while Togo will back themselves to cause problems on the break. But the Greek winger believes the mentality Arsenal are showing in pre-season is a sign they are ready to defend their crown.

Star players on both sides will be eager to make their mark, and the individual duels across the pitch could go a long way to deciding the outcome. Set-piece specialists and aerial threats on both sides mean dead-ball situations could carry outsized importance. The Serie A side need to sell before attempting to sign a striker, however.

Predictions are tricky when the sides are this evenly matched, and small margins — a moment of quality, a slice of luck — could decide it either way. A share of the spoils looks the most probable outcome, with neither side holding a decisive edge — a 1-1 draw feels like a fitting result. The ramifications of this result could ripple through the Africa Cup of Nations - Qualification standings for weeks to come, regardless of who comes out on top. The Spaniard heading to Barca all but rules out a midfield departure from the Bernabeu and thus United will likely have to look elsewhere.