Which matches and tournaments can football fans watch after the World Cup?

The final whistle of the FIFA World Cup 2026 has blown, drawing to a close an exhilarating six weeks of unparalleled global football. With 48 nations battling it out across 104 matches in the biggest edition of the tournament yet, fans worldwide, including Zambia's fervent supporters, are now faced with the familiar post-World Cup void. However, the football calendar is far from empty, promising a swift return to top-tier club action that will undoubtedly captivate audiences from Lusaka to Livingstone. For Zambian football aficionados, the transition from international spectacle to club dominance is seamless. The English Premier League, a perennial favourite across the continent, is gearing up for its new season, promising its usual blend of drama, skill, and intense rivalries. Alongside it, the UEFA Champions League, the pinnacle of European club football, will recommence, featuring the continent's elite clubs vying for continental supremacy. Spain's La Liga, Italy's Serie A, Germany's Bundesliga, and France's Ligue 1 also offer a wealth of talent and thrilling encounters, ensuring that there is no shortage of high-quality football to consume. Beyond the established league fixtures, the immediate aftermath of the World Cup often sees the staging of curtain-raiser events. The UEFA Super Cup, pitting the Champions League winners against the Europa League victors, provides an early clash of titans. Additionally, various domestic cup competitions across Europe will kick off, offering an extra layer of excitement and the chance for clubs to secure early silverware. These matches are crucial for teams to build momentum and for fans to see their new signings in action, setting the tone for a demanding season ahead. The popularity of European football in Zambia is undeniable, with millions following clubs like Manchester United, Arsenal, and Chelsea. This deep engagement is partly fueled by the presence of Zambian stars like Patson Daka, Fashion Sakala, and Lameck Banda