AFCON 2027 Qualifiers: CAF Approves National Heroes Stadium for November Matches

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has granted National Heroes Stadium in Lusaka, Zambia, temporary Category 3 approval to host matches in November 2026.

Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) General Secretary Charles Chakatazya confirmed the development to FAZ Media following a CAF communication dated October 28.

The approval follows a technical assessment conducted at the stadium between October 19 and 22, with CAF confirming that the venue meets the key requirements for hosting CAF and FIFA matches.

“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. The first leg, initially scheduled for Levy Mwanawasa Stadium, will now take place in Lusaka on November 13.

The venue will also host the 2028 Olympic qualifier between Zambia’s U23 side and Burkina Faso U23 on November 15.

Chakatazya thanked the Zambian government for the work carried out at the stadium and acknowledged the patience of supporters during the approval process.

“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 added.