PRIDE, not qualification, will be on the line tonight when Tanzania’s Taifa Stars host Zambia’s Chipolopolo in their final 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying Group E fixture at the Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar. Kickoff is scheduled for 10:00 p.m. local time.

Both sides are already out of contention for a World Cup berth after a challenging qualification campaign dominated by group leaders Morocco, who sealed top spot and a place in the next stage. 

As such, tonight’s match serves as a chance for both Tanzania and Zambia to restore pride, test new combinations, and end their campaigns on a positive note.Tanzania, led by coach Hemed ‘Morocco’ Suleiman (pictured), enter the contest looking to end a worrying winless streak. The Taifa Stars have failed to record a victory in their last four competitive matches - a run that includes defeats to Central African Republic, Morocco, Congo Republic, and Niger. 

 Their most recent outing, a 1–0 home loss to Niger last month at the same venue, extended their poor record in Zanzibar.Despite that, Suleiman insists morale remains high.

 “We arrived safely in Zanzibar and trained well. All players are fit, physically and mentally,” he said on Monday. “Everyone is competing hard for a place in the starting team. The match against Zambia will be tough, but with the squad we have, I believe we can do well.”

 The Tanzanian tactician is expected to maintain much of his recent lineup while also giving minutes to emerging players, viewing the match as part of a longer-term rebuilding process ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations finals in Morocco.

 Zambia, meanwhile, have endured a similarly disappointing campaign. The Chipolopolo have failed to live up to expectations after a promising start and are mathematically out of the running. 

 For coach Avram Grant, the fixture offers one final opportunity to evaluate his squad and finish the qualifiers on a respectable note.While the stakes may be low, regional rivalry ensures intensity remains high. Tanzania edged Zambia 1–0 in the reverse fixture, and the visitors will be eager to avenge that loss.

 Both teams are expected to approach the game with attacking intent but defensive caution — a contest of pride and preparation rather than pressure.  For the fans at Amaan, it is still a night to celebrate national football, even if the World Cup dream will have to wait for another cycle.