Softfootball highlights the exciting developments in AFCON, following Cameroon’s 1-0 victory over Gabon yesterday. On Friday, Zambia and Comoros will clash in Group A at Stade Mohammed V, with significant implications for both teams.
Each side seeks to build momentum after a challenging start to the tournament, and this match could be pivotal in determining the group’s outcome.
Zambia recently made an announcement about the upcoming match on their official X account.
They shared the message:
Here we go!
In their tournament opener, Zambia managed a 1–1 draw against Mali. While the performance was not ideal, it was crucial for regaining some confidence after a streak of four consecutive losses. The Chipolopolo fell behind due to a goal by Lassine Sinayoko but fought back, with Patson Daka scoring a header in stoppage time to earn a draw.
This result means Zambia has now gone ten matches in AFCON without a victory, having drawn eight of those. Despite this, they are hopeful heading into their next match.
A win would enhance their chances of advancing. However, there are concerns due to their poor recent results against Comoros, having failed to win in their last three head-to-head encounters—losing twice and drawing once. Furthermore, creating only two significant chances against Mali indicates that they need improvement in their attacking play.
On the other hand, Comoros faced a challenging match against the hosts, Morocco, in their opener. They managed to maintain a stalemate through much of the first half but ultimately conceded two goals after the interval. Following the match, Brahim Díaz from Real Madrid was named man of the match.
The defeat means Comoros has now gone five matches without a win, with their last four all ending with losses. Another defeat might lead to early elimination from the tournament, but they can find solace in their favorable recent record against Zambia.
Team News
It is unlikely that Zambia will make significant changes for this match. Despite some inconsistencies, coach Moses Sichone is expected to retain the same starting players. Francis Mwansa, who successfully saved a penalty against Mali, is likely to remain in goal.
The defensive lineup of Mathews Banda, Benson Sakala, Dominic Chanda, and Frankie Musonda is also expected to stay the same. Patson Daka will spearhead the attack again, supported by Lameck Banda and Fashion Sakala.
Comoros, too, is likely to maintain its starting XI. Yannick Pandor is expected to continue in goal following his penalty save, with Rafik Said again tasked with the goalscoring duties.
Possible Lineups
Zambia:
Mwansa; M. Banda, B. Sakala, Chanda, Musonda; Chaiwa, Kangwa, Tembo; F. Sakala, Daka, L. Banda
Comoros:
Pandor; Toibubu, Soilihi, Kari, Boura; B. Youssouf, Z. Youssouf, Mohammed, Selemani; N’Changama, Said
Comoros’ previous success against Zambia may be a concern for the Zambian side. However, given their less convincing recent performances, Zambia’s experience could provide an edge. It is likely to be a close encounter, with both teams feeling the pressure.
Prediction: Zambia 1-0 Comoros
