Zambia vs Ivory Coast Prediction: The Zambians will capitalise on fairly experienced Ivorian side

The Chipolopolo of Zambia will host Ivory Coast at the Bamlak Tessema Stadium on Saturday. Zambia are a step into next season’s AFCON Tournament with nine points so far, while the visitors head here without some notable names in their squad.

FIFA Ranking: 86th

Last five matches: LWWW

Since their defeat against Ivory Coast at the beginning of this round, the Copper Bullets responded with three consecutive victories. They have won back-to-back against Lesotho and recorded a (2-1) win over Comoros. Patson Daka and Lameck Banda have scored three goals each in this qualifying round to ensure their team remain in the second spot on the log. Aljosa Asanovic's men have scored the same goals as Ivory Coast in this round but have conceded five times as well. Zambia have picked up nine points from a combined twelve.

FIFA Ranking: 45th

Last three matches: WDWW

The Ivorians have been phenomenal since the commencement of this round; they have won three and drawn once. More recently, they thrashed the inexperienced Lesotho two goals to nil to assume the top spot. Ibrahim Sangare and Frankie Kessie were both on the scoreboard to hand their side the ticket to AFCON. Ivory Coast will be looking to make a statement and stamp their authority in this match, though they already qualified. The Ivorians have a wealth of experience and quality in their squad, and we expect them to at least seal a point.

Over their five meetings, Zambia have won twice, while Ivory Coast have recorded two victories and a game ending in a draw. Ivory Coast will miss key players like Zaha, Haller, Diallo, and Pepe. The Ivorians already secured their spot in next season’s AFCON Tournament; however, the Zambians must also avoid defeat here to qualify. The Ivorian team might lack synergy in this encounter due to the unavailability of some experienced squad players, and we believe Zambia will capitalise on that to secure a point; bet on a home win or draw for 1.55.

With the partnership of Patson Daka of Leicester City and Lameck Banda of Lecce upfront for the Chipolopolo, we expect them to strike first for 2.50.

Both sides have serious players who know how to score; bet on BTTS for 2.20.

Good luck!