Zambia will face Chad in a critical AFCON qualifier, with Zambia coming off a recent win against Sierra Leone while Chad struggles at the bottom of their group. Zambia seeks to maintain its form, but Chad aims to turn around its failing campaign. Key players’ absences may impact both teams significantly as they prepare for this pivotal match.
Zambia is poised to host Chad at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium this Friday afternoon in a crucial match for the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers. Following a morale-boosting victory against Sierra Leone, where they overcame a challenging match resulting in a 3-2 win, Zambia is keen to maintain its positive momentum. The Chipolopolo team had previously endured a frustrating run of nine competitive matches without tasting victory, thus their recent result not only lifted their spirits but also positioned them second in Group G. In contrast, Chad arrives at this match with considerable challenges as they aim to regroup after suffering a 2-0 defeat to Ivory Coast. This loss marked their third defeat in four matches, a stretch during which they have displayed significant struggles in both defense and attack, failing to score in these fixtures. Currently at the bottom of their qualifying group, the time constraints are critical for Chad as they seek to revitalize their campaign and secure only their second away victory since 2015. On the team news front, Zambia will be without Leicester City forward Patson Daka due to an ankle injury and Fashion Sakala remains sidelined due to a disagreement with the coach. However, Frankie Musonda returns to the squad, providing some depth. Meanwhile, Chad’s hopes may rest on players such as Marius and Casimir Ninga, who are expected to contribute both experience and goal-scoring capability. The predicted line-up for Zambia includes Mulenga in goal, with Chepeshi, Chongo, and Mwape forming the defense. The midfield and attack are likely to feature key players such as Kangwa and Musonda. Chad is anticipated to deploy Allabatna in goal and rely on the attacking prowess of Ninga and Marius. Overall, while Chad seeks to end its scoring drought, Zambia appears to have the upper hand and is favored to triumph with a predicted scoreline of 2-1 in their favor, with the expectation that they will capitalize on their home advantage.
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers have brought forth varying fortunes for the participating teams. While Zambia has recently found its form with a critical victory against Sierra Leone, Chad has struggled to find success, leaving them at the bottom of Group G standings. This match is pivotal for both teams, as Zambia aims to solidify its position within the group and Chad seeks to avoid elimination from AFCON contention. The contrasting trajectories of the two teams highlight the urgency for Chad to secure points while Zambia hopes to build on their recent success.
In summary, Friday’s encounter between Zambia and Chad promises to be a significant clash within the AFCON qualifiers. Zambia’s recent victory has instilled confidence in their ranks, while Chad is under immense pressure to redirect their path toward potential qualification. The match will test both teams’ resolve, with Zambia likely to emerge victorious over Chad, who must address their pressing issues in both scoring and defense.
Original Source: www.sportsmole.co.uk
