Zambia hosts Chad in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers after a recent victory against Sierra Leone, marking their first win in ten matches. Chad, sitting at the bottom of the group, seeks to revitalize their campaign after a disheartening loss to Ivory Coast. Key players from both sides are expected to make an impact, with Zambia looking to build on their recent success while Chad searches for their first away victory since 2015.
As Zambia prepares to host Chad at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium this Friday, they do so buoyed by their recent victory in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Sierra Leone. The Chipolopolo emerged from a thrilling encounter, having previously endured a lengthy winless streak of nine matches. Under the guidance of coach Avram Grant, the team demonstrated resilience by overcoming a two-goal deficit to secure a 3-2 win, thanks to Kings Kangwa’s late goal. Despite concerns over their defensive lapses, Zambia currently occupies second place in Group G and has the opportunity to extend their lead in the qualification race before facing Chad again in the subsequent match week. Conversely, Chad has faced a challenging qualification campaign, suffering a 2-0 loss to Ivory Coast in their last outing, thereby placing them at the bottom of their group. The team has struggled offensively, failing to score in their last four matches while conceding five goals. Moreover, the squad is yet to secure a spot in an official AFCON tournament, and time is running out for them to improve their fortunes. Chad will seek their first away win since 2015 against Zambia, with players like Marius aiming to transition recent club successes to the international stage. Zambia’s lineup will see notable absences, including Leicester City’s Patson Daka due to an ankle injury and Fashion Sakala, who remains out due to a disagreement with the coach. However, Frankie Musonda returns from injury, alongside the promising Chipyoka Songa, who may make his international debut. Chad will depend on their experienced forward Casimir Ninga to lead their attack as they look to turn their campaign around in this crucial match.
The upcoming match between Zambia and Chad is a significant fixture in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. After a dismal sequence of results, Zambia’s recent victory offers a potential turning point in their campaign as they aim for a place in the prestigious tournament. Conversely, Chad’s struggle to find form in this qualifying round places immense pressure on them, as they chase their first points in the group. The performance of key players from both teams will be critical in determining the match’s outcome, especially given Zambia’s home advantage and Chad’s desperate need for improvement.
In summary, the fixture between Zambia and Chad presents a crucial opportunity for both teams. For Zambia, continuing their positive momentum following a long-awaited victory is imperative, while Chad faces a critical juncture in their qualification efforts. With Chad in dire need of points, this match could prove pivotal for their aspirations, but Zambia’s home advantage and recent form suggest they will be the favorites to emerge victorious.
Original Source: www.sportsmole.co.uk
