Niger pulled off a major upset by defeating Zambia 1-0 in a CAF World Cup qualification match on October 12, 2025, at the National Heroes Stadium in Lusaka. This stunning away victory gives Niger a perfect start to their campaign and deals a significant blow to Zambia's qualification hopes. The only goal came against the run of play in the first half, a well-taken finish following a quick breakaway. Zambia dominated possession and created numerous chances but was repeatedly denied by a combination of poor finishing and heroic defending from the Niger side. The key moment was a missed penalty by Zambia in the second half, which summed up their frustrating evening. The table impact is seismic, as Niger takes a surprise early lead in the group, while Zambia faces pressure after a disappointing home defeat. The Niger manager hailed the result as historic, and the Zambian coach lamented his team's lack of composure in front of goal.