ZPL Confirms CAF 2026/27 Qualification Criteria

23.02.2026 | Football DNA

The Zambian Premier League (ZPL) has officially outlined the qualification pathway for Zambia’s representatives in the 2026/27 CAF Inter-Club Competitions.

In a statement issued by ZPL Chief Executive Officer Joseph Chimpampwe, the league confirmed that qualification will be determined strictly on sporting merit achieved during the 2025/26 domestic season, in line with directives from the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

Qualification Breakdown

Under the confirmed criteria:

MTN Super League Champions (2025/26) will represent Zambia in the CAF Champions League.

ABSA Cup Winners (2025/26) will qualify for the CAF Confederation Cup.

In the event that one club wins both the MTN Super League and the ABSA Cup, the ABSA Cup runners-up will automatically secure Zambia’s slot in the CAF Confederation Cup.

Club Licensing Compliance Mandatory

The league has further emphasized that qualification alone will not guarantee participation. All clubs must fully comply with CAF Club Licensing Regulations, administered locally by the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ).

These requirements cover several key areas, including sporting standards, infrastructure, administrative structures, legal compliance, and financial management.

High Stakes for 2025/26 Season

The announcement sets the stage for an intense 2025/26 campaign, with clubs now fully aware that continental qualification will depend solely on on-field performance and regulatory compliance.

As the race for domestic glory heats up, teams will not only be battling for trophies but also for the opportunity to represent Zambia on the continental stage.