Zambia takes on Ivory Coast in the Group H Africa Cup of Nations qualifier this Saturday at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium, as the Chipolopolo desperately need a point to secure their qualification for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
Despite qualifying for the tournament as hosts, Ivory Coast has a perfect record in the campaign, winning three and drawing one.
The Chipolopolo had a poor start in the qualifiers, losing 3-1 to Ivory Coast in their first game, but they recovered by beating Comoros 2-1 at home and doing a double over Lesotho.
Following their 2013 and 2015 group-stage exits, the Chipolopolo will be eager to return to the continent’s biggest football showpiece.
Head to Head (Last five games)
Zambia: One Win
Ivory Coast: Two wins
Draws: Two
Form
Zambia: Win-lose-Win-Win-Win
Ivory Coast: Win-Win-Win–Win-Win
Players to Watch
Fashion Sakala (Zambia): The Rangers forward has been in red-hot form and should be keen on taking his form at club level to the national team. You can bank on the former Zanaco man to cause problems for the Ivorians. Fashion terrorized the Scottish League prior to its conclusion, and he was instrumental as they finished second in the league. As a result, the Zambians scored 12 goals and assisted on seven occasions. He beat his own personal best set in the previous league campaign.
Max Gradel (Ivory Coast): He is one of the most experienced players in the squad. He will be instrumental in bringing stability in the midfield for the Elephants. He has been directly involved in 13 ball distributions scoring 8 and providing five assists in the 34 appearances made across all competitions for his Turkish side SivassPorR this season and will be hoping to replicate his club form at the National team.
BETTING TIP: Zambia or Ivory Coast to win and both teams to score.
