Kenyan pair secures progression in Zambia knockout competition
By Luke Oluoch, February 20, 2026Zambian football giants Zesco United, home to Kenyan custodian Levis Opiyo, have qualified for the 2026 ABSA Cup after edging Zanaco 2-1 at Sunset Stadium on Thursday, February 19, 2026, in a rain-soaked clash.
Goals in either half by new Ghanaian striker Elvis Bernard Addae and striker Amine Hiver secured victory for the Ndola giants.
The Kenyan was denied a clean sheet in the tie as Zanaco got their consolation from the spot through Eliya Mandanji.
Opiyo debuts in CAF games
Overall, the custodian continued his performance in goal, following up with his exploits in the CAF Confederations Cup games, where he made back-to-back appearances for Timu Ya Ziko as it exited the continental stage over the weekend.
Opiyo’s debut came in an away clash with Kaizer Chiefs in Durban a fortnight ago before the Kenyan featured in a 2-0 defeat to Al Masry of Egypt in the final group clashes of the CAF inter-club competition five days ago.
Opiyo joined Zesco from Bandari, going straight into the former league champions’ first team.
Zega Mambo joined the eight qualified teams for the knockout cup, which also has reigning league champion, Power Dynamos, home to the Kenyan striker, Moses Shumah.
Speaking after the win, Zesco coach Emannuel Siwale expressed satisfaction with the team’s determination and execution on the day.
“We wanted to win and qualify for the ABSA Cup, and the boys showed the fight we talked about. It was a tough match, especially when the rains came, but we had to find the winning goal. I’m very happy that they managed to achieve what we set out to do.”
Looking ahead, the coach maintained a measured approach to the campaign.
“The league is a journey. We will take every game as it comes. We can’t start talking about matches we haven’t played yet.”
The full list of teams who have qualified for the 2026 ABSA CUP
1. Power Dynamos
2. Red Arrows
3. Zanaco FC
4. Kabwe Warriors
5. Zesco United
6. Might Mufulira
7. Nchanga Rangers