Both Zambia and Ivory Coast remain in contention to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations as the two nations prepare to do battle at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Group G on Thursday evening.
Kick-off is at 6pm CAT (SA, GMT+2)
CURRENT FORM
Zambia are currently on a three match unbeaten run in Group G and head into their next encounter sitting in second position on the table.
With seven points to their name in four matches played so far, The Copper Bullets last recorded a 1-0 win against Chad at Stade Omnisport Ahmadou Ahidjo in a fixture that took place on 15 October.
The Elephants, on the other hand, suffered a 1-0 defeat against Sierra Leone in their matchday four encounter as Amadou Bakayoko’s 85th-minute strike separated the two nations at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Stadium on15 October.
Prior to their loss against Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast began their qualifying bid with three consecutive wins in Group G.
Ivory Coast were victorious the last time the two sides met on matchday one, as the Elephants secured a 2-0 win at Stade de Bouake on 6 September.
WHAT WAS SAID
Speaking ahead of the game, Zambia coach Avram Grant believes his side have the opportunity to showcase their talents and determination to qualify for next year’s showpiece.
"I never shy away from pressure. In fact, I thrive on it. It's the pressure that drives you to achieve greatness,"
"I have a fascination with history and aim for consecutive Afcon qualifications.
"The opportunity remains for players who demonstrate quality, passion, and determination to represent the national team."
The Elephants’ mentor Emerse Fae expressed that he wants his team to be recognised among the best teams on the Fifa Rankings list.
“We play every match to win. We’re coming off a defeat that made us lose a lot of Fifa ranking points
“So for us, we already have qualification in the bag, the objective now is to remain among the six best African teams to be seeded and regain our place as the fourth African team in the Fifa rankings.”
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Zambia: Vakoun Bayo – the Watford attacker has been in fine form this season, having scored six goals while recording three assists in 14 matches played so far in the English Championship. Bayo’s form warranted a call-up and he will be tasked to produce the goods against Ivory Coast this week.
Ivory Coast: Ousmane Diomande – The Sporting Lisbon star has emerged as one of Europe’s best young defenders in the last couple of months. After attracting interest from the Premier League, Diomande will no doubt be eager to impress on the international stage this week.
HEAD-TO-HEAD
Matches - 7
Zambia wins - 3
Ivory Coast wins - 3
Draws - 1