Zesco United face a tough test in the Confederation Cup this weekend as they look to recover from a 2–0 first-leg defeat against Gabonese side FC 105 Libreville. The Ndola club must produce a strong response at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium on Sunday if they are to progress to the next round.
Once a regular feature in the group stages of CAF competitions, Zesco’s fortunes on the continental stage have declined sharply. The nine–time Zambian champions, who reached the quarter finals of the competition in 2017 and the group stage in 2019, have in recent seasons struggled to make it past the preliminary rounds.
Sunday’s match, therefore, carries added significance as the team seeks to restore some of its lost stature on the continental stage.
Football is riddled with many comeback stories, and if Zesco is to pull up one, here are some of the things that could prove decisive.
Get an early goal
Trailing by two goals, Zesco needs to reduce the deficit as quickly as possible. An early strike would change the momentum of the tie, lift the home crowd, and place FC 105 under pressure. A patient approach will be needed, but Zesco cannot afford a slow start.
Stay Compact at the Back
While attack is the best form of defense, Zesco must remain solid at the back. Conceding an away goal would leave them needing to score four times to advance. Emmanuel Siwale will need to mount a backline that is equal to the task.
The proverbial 12th player
Levy Mwanawasa Stadium has often provided Zesco with a platform for big results in Africa. The Zesco fanbase is frustrated at the happenings at the club, but now is the moment to put those ‘family’ issues aside and focus on the common enemy.
All the best, Team Ya Ziko.
READ ALSO: Rating transfer moves made by Zambian players abroad in 2025-26
