Zambia, Comoros settle for goalless draw, as AFCON qualification battle gets tighter

Zambia and Comoros played out a 0–0 draw in an Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying match, with both sides failing to convert chances in a closely fought encounter marked by a first-half VAR decision.

Comoros thought they had taken the lead in the 19th minute when Myziane Maolida found the back of the net, but the goal was overturned following a VAR review, much to the relief of the hosts.

Zambia responded with sustained pressure, creating opportunities through Fashion Sakala, Kings Kangwa and Lameck Banda, but Comoros remained compact defensively, limiting clear scoring chances.

The visitors also posed a threat, with Youssouf M’Changama and Zaydou Youssouf testing Zambia’s defence from distance, though their efforts lacked precision.

The second half saw Zambia push harder for a breakthrough, introducing fresh legs in attack, including Joseph Sabobo and Kennedy Musonda. Lubambo Musonda twice attempted long-range efforts, while Patson Daka was a constant target of fouls as Zambia sought to build momentum.

Comoros came close late on when substitute Faïz Selamani headed narrowly over the bar in the 81st minute, one of the best chances of the half.

Despite late pressure and a series of corners in stoppage time, Zambia could not find a winning goal, and the match ended goalless.

The draw leaves both sides with work to do in their AFCON qualifying campaign as competition in the group remains tight.

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