Zambia has been awarded three points and three goals for the unplayed match against Congo Brazzaville, originally scheduled for March 25, 2025. This follows the suspension of the Central African nation by FIFA.
Tanzania has similarly been awarded three points and three goals under the same circumstances.
The decision was confirmed by the FIFA Disciplinary Committee on Monday, in accordance with Article 16 of FIFA’s statutes.
Earlier this month, the Bureau of the FIFA Council lifted the suspension that had been imposed on the Congolese Football Association (FECOFOOT) on February 6, 2025.
The suspension, which barred Congo from participating in all international competitions, was a result of third-party interference in the country’s football administration. FIFA took action after the Congolese government assumed control of football affairs, thereby breaching the governing body’s regulations on the autonomy of football associations.
What happens next ?
Prior to the suspension, Congo had played three World Cup qualifying matches. Their remaining fixtures include a home game against Tanzania in September, an away match against Niger, and a final encounter against Morocco in October.
Congo currently sits at the bottom of Group E with zero points. Zambia, now in fourth place with six points from five matches, trails group leaders Morocco, who sit at the top with 15 points. Tanzania has moved into second place with nine points, while Niger is third—level on six points with Zambia but behind on goal difference.
With the revised standings, Zambia now has a renewed opportunity to qualify for the World Cup. They will host Morocco on September 8, travel to face Tanzania in October, and conclude their campaign with a home fixture against Niger.
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