Five Things to Know Today in Football – Monday September 8
As the sports world gears up for another action-packed week, key stories are unfolding both at home and abroad, from Zambia’s crucial World Cup qualifier against Morocco to Manchester United’s goalkeeping crisis. Here are the five top headlines you need to know today:
1. Avram Grant Backs Chipolopolo Against Morocco
Zambia coach Avram Grant has expressed confidence in his squad as the Chipolopolo prepare to face Morocco in a crucial FIFA World Cup qualifier on Monday at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium. Grant welcomed the return of key players, stressing that it boosts competition within the team. While acknowledging Morocco’s strength, he believes Zambia can rise to the challenge. Zambia currently sits third in Group E with six points, behind Morocco (18) and Tanzania (10). Kick-off is at 15:00.
2. Morocco Coach Walid Regragui Vows to Play for a Win
Despite already qualifying for the World Cup, Morocco coach Walid Regragui insists his side will go for victory against Zambia. Speaking ahead of the match, he noted that the Atlas Lions will rotate their squad after a tight schedule but assured fans that the replacements will remain competitive. Morocco leads Group E with 18 points, but Regragui said Zambia’s hunger for points will make it a good contest.
3. Green Buffaloes Edge ZESCO Ndola Girls
ZESCO Ndola Girls suffered defeat in their season opener after Green Buffaloes secured a late 1–0 victory. The game remained goalless until the 88th minute when Agnes Phiri struck to hand Buffaloes all three points. The result gives Buffaloes a strong start, while ZESCO will look to bounce back in their next fixture.
4. Comoros Keep World Cup Hopes Alive
Comoros closed the gap on Group I leaders Ghana with a vital 2–0 victory over Central African Republic in Sunday’s CAF World Cup qualifier. Goals from Youssouf M’Changama and Myziane Maolida sealed the win, lifting Comoros to 15 points — just one behind Ghana. The result eliminates Central African Republic from contention but leaves Comoros, Madagascar, and Mali in a fierce battle for qualification.
5. Manchester United’s Goalkeeping Dilemma
Manchester United face a major goalkeeping headache ahead of the Manchester derby against City. With Andre Onana close to a loan exit and new signing Senne Lammens still inexperienced, coach Ruben Amorim must decide whether to stick with Altay Bayindir — who has looked shaky in recent games — or throw Lammens into a high-pressure debut. The spotlight will be unforgiving, with any mistake likely to be heavily scrutinized.
⚽ Stay tuned and look out for tomorrow’s Five Things to Know in Football for more key updates from around the world.
