The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has granted Lusaka’s National Heroes Stadium temporary Category 3 approval to host international matches in November 2026, paving the way for Zambia’s senior and Under-23 national teams to play their upcoming fixtures at the venue.
Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) General Secretary Charles Chakatazya confirmed the development to FAZ Media following a CAF communication dated October 28.
The decision follows a technical assessment mission conducted at the stadium between October 19 and 22, with the temporary approval covering the month of November.
“We are pleased that CAF has granted National Heroes Stadium temporary Category 3 approval for November. The assessment confirms that the stadium meets the key requirements for hosting CAF/FIFA matches,” Chakatazya said.
As a result, Zambia’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Burundi has been moved to National Heroes Stadium from Levy Mwanawasa Stadium. The match is scheduled for November 13.
The Zambia Under-23 team’s 2028 Olympic Games qualifier against Burkina Faso has also been relocated to Heroes Stadium, with the fixture set for November 15.
Chakatazya acknowledged the Government’s efforts to upgrade the facility, while thanking supporters for their patience as the association worked to secure CAF’s approval.
“We are grateful to the Government for the works undertaken at the stadium, which CAF has acknowledged. We also thank our fans for their patience as we worked towards securing this approval,” he said.
However, the FAZ general secretary noted that CAF had highlighted outstanding concerns that must be addressed ahead of a further assessment, indicating that additional work remains necessary to meet the governing body’s requirements.
Chakatazya urged supporters to turn out in numbers and fill the stadium as the senior Chipolopolo and the Under-23 side take on their respective opponents in crucial international assignments.
The temporary approval represents an important step in restoring National Heroes Stadium’s availability for international football, although the outstanding requirements will need to be addressed as Zambia continues to work towards meeting CAF’s stadium standards.
