As a lifelong Chipolopolo supporter, I can’t help but feel the anticipation that is gripping the nation as we approach the Africa Cup of Nations (AfCON) set for Ivory Coast next month.
Zambia will face formidable opposition in Morocco, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the Taifa Stars of Tanzania in Group F of the 24–team tournament.
As a way to build up to the tournament, I decided to jot down some little nothings about the teams that stands in Chipolopolo’s way.
Here we go.
MOROCCO
Morocco will stride into the group stage as undisputed heavyweights, boasting a long-forged reputation for dominance and their recent results.
2023 record
Their 2023 record speaks volumes – four wins, three draws, and just one defeat in eight international outings. Their most recent victory came against Tanzania in a World Cup qualifier last month.
They have proved potent in front of goal this year, netting nine goals while their resolute defense has conceded only four and kept five clean sheets.
Head to Head against Zambia
Zambia and Morocco have clashed on 18 occasions, with the Atlas Lions claiming 10 victories to Chipolopolo’s four. Only on two occasions has this matchup failed to produce a winner.
Best AfCON Performance
AfCON glory has eluded Morocco since their 1976 triumph in a then eight-team tournament played in Ethiopia. However, they remain a force to be reckoned with.
How they qualified
Their qualification journey saw them top Group K with nine points, securing three wins and one loss in a group that had South Africa, Liberia, and disqualified Zimbabwe.
Morocco’s pedigree precedes them. Whether they translate it into continental glory again is a question only the tournament can answer. But one thing’s for sure – they enter the fray a favorite.
DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO
After a disappointing absence from the 2021 tournament in Cameroon, theDemocratic Republic of Congo (DRC) roar back onto the continent’s grandest stage. The Leopards are eager to reclaim their place among the continental elite.
2023 Record
2023 has been a year of mixed fortunes for the DRC. In 12 international outings, they have secured seven victories, showcasing their winning mentality is still up there but, three losses and two draws highlight areas for improvement.
Head to Head against Zambia
The Leopards, who are Zambia’s opening group stage opponents, hold a slight psychological edge over Chipolopolo. In 25 meetings, the Leopards have emerged victorious eight times, one more than the Chipolopolo.Ten encounters have ended in a stalemate.
Best AfCON performance
The DRC’s are a two-time AfCON winner claiming gold in 1968 and 1974.
How they qualified
Qualification for AFCON 2023 was a smooth affair for the DRC. Topping Group I with 12 points, they notched six wins and suffered only two setbacks in a group that had Mauritania, Gabon, and Sudan.
TANZANIA
While the spotlight shines brightly on Morocco, DRC and Zambia in Group F, Tanzania quietly lurk in the shadows. They are the group’s underdogs, but the Taifa Stars possess the potential to spring a surprise in this group.
2023 Record
Their 2023 record offers a snapshot of a team in transition. Three wins, two losses and two draws paint a picture of inconsistency.
Head-to-head against Zambia
While the Chipolopolo hold a dominant 18-5 advantage, nine draws showcase Tanzania’s ability to frustrate even the mightiest foes. The familiarity of being neighbors adds another layer of intrigue in this group.
How they qualified
Qualification for AFCON 2023 itself was a testament to Tanzania’s growing ambition. Finishing second in Group F behind Algeria, they secured their place with eight points alongside the Foxes, who had 16.
Best performance at AfCON
Past performances offer little solace. Tanzania has never gone beyond the group stage at AfCON. Group stage exits in 1980 and 2019 serve as reminders of the challenges that lie ahead.
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Tanzania’s best is yet to come, and the AFCON presents an opportunity to rewrite their continental narrative.
