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The Stade de San Pedro will witness an intense showdown between Zambia and Morocco in the Africa Cup of Nations as both teams fight for qualification to the round of 16. With everything at stake, this clash promises to be a nerve-wracking finale to Group F.
Match Preview:
Zambia, back on the AFCON stage after a three-edition absence, is still searching for their first win in the tournament since their remarkable triumph in 2012.
Two consecutive 1-1 draws have dampened their spirits, particularly the disappointing result against Tanzania in a match they were expected to win.
Despite being reduced to ten men, Zambia showed resilience and salvaged a point through Patson Daka’s powerful header.
Now, with two points from two games, they face a must-win situation against tournament favorites Morocco.
On the other hand, Morocco aims to secure their second AFCON title in history. After a convincing 3-0 victory over Tanzania in their opener, they faced a stumbling block in a frustrating 1-1 draw against DR Congo.
Although Achraf Hakimi gave them an early lead, Silas Katompa Mvumpa leveled the scoreline in the second half.
Morocco’s attacking intent has been evident with 25 shots (11 on target) in their first two matches, but their finishing needs improvement.
Team News:
Zambia will miss the services of Rodrick Kabwe due to suspension following his dismissal against Tanzania.
Tandi Mwape is expected to take his place in the starting lineup. In attack, Clatous Chama could earn a starting spot after an impressive performance in the previous game.
Morocco is likely to field the same lineup as their draw against Congo DR, with Sofiane Boufal replacing Abde Ezzalzouli as the only change made by coach Walid Regragui.
Noussair Mazraoui remains a doubt, and Romain Saiss and Nayef Aguerd are expected to start in defense. Youssef En-Nesyri, who scored against Tanzania, will lead the attack.
Possible Lineups:
Zambia: (4-1-4-1)
Mulenga;
Mwape, Sunzu, Musonda, Chapeshi;
Kapumbu;
Banda, Banda, Kangwa, Sakala;
Daka
Morocco: (4-1-4-1)
Bono;
Hakimi, Aguerd, Saiss, Chibi;
Amrabat;
Ziyech, Ounahi, Amallah, Boufal;
En-Nesyri
Prediction: Zambia 1-2 Morocco
In what is expected to be a closely contested match, both teams will approach cautiously to avoid making costly mistakes.
Morocco’s quality and technical finesse give them an advantage, but Zambia will put up a strong fight. Historically, Morocco has dominated this fixture, and we anticipate that trend to continue.
Key Players to Watch:
Patson Daka (Zambia): The talented forward will be eager to make an impact and help his team secure a crucial win.
Youssef En-Nesyri (Morocco): With a goal already in the tournament, En-Nesyri will be a key figure in Morocco’s attacking strategy.
Past Encounters:
Zambia has struggled against Morocco, managing just one victory in six meetings. The odds are stacked against them, but they will look to defy history and create an upset.
