The Stade de San Pedro prepares to host a drama-laden finale to Group F in the Africa Cup of Nations as Zambia takes on Morocco on Wednesday night.
The Atlas Lions and the Chipolopolo lock horns in a clash where qualification for the round of 16 hangs in the balance.
Back on the AFCON stage after a three-edition absence, Zambia are still chasing their first win in the tournament since their improbable triumph in 2012.
Two opening draws, both by an identical 1-1 scoreline, have dampened the Chipolopolo’s roar, especially the latest disappointment against Tanzania in a game they were widely expected to win.
With two points from two games, the Southern Africans face a win-or-bust scenario against tournament favourites Morocco in their final group clash on Wednesday.
Failure to secure victory could see Zambia eliminated at the group stage for the third consecutive AFCON. However, the historical odds are stacked against them, having beaten Morocco only once in six meetings, losing three times and drawing twice.
Widely tipped as the tournament’s strongest contenders, Morocco are targeting their second AFCON title in history.
The Atlas Lions initially lived up to expectations in their opening match, dispatching group minnows Tanzania by a convincing 3-0 margin. However, their quest for a smooth run hit a snag in their second outing, a frustrating 1-1 draw against DR Congo.
Expect a cagey opening, with both teams wary of exposing vulnerabilities. Morocco’s quality and technical finesse might give them the edge, but Zambia will not go down without a fight. The Atlas Lions have dominated this fixture in the past, and we expect this trend to continue.
Credit: sportsmole.co.uk
