Zambia Vs Chad

Chad will be looking to secure their first victory in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers when they face Zambia at Stade Omnisport Ahmadou Ahidjo on Tuesday afternoon. The stakes are high for both sides in this crucial Group G encounter. For Chad, a win could significantly boost their chances of advancing in the competition, while Zambia will aim to extend their lead over their opponents and solidify their position in the standings.

Match Preview: Chad's Defensive Resilience Versus Zambia's Offensive Push

In their last outing, Chad managed to frustrate the Zambian team, holding them to a 0-0 draw despite being on the receiving end of heavy pressure. Zambia fired 14 shots during the match, three of which were on target, but Chad’s defense held firm, denying their opponents any chance of finding the back of the net. This performance highlighted the defensive prowess of Les Sao, as they successfully survived the onslaught from the Chipolopolo boys.

Chad's defensive record in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers has been commendable, as they have only conceded two goals across three matches. This places them second in Group G in terms of goals allowed, showcasing their ability to remain resolute at the back. However, despite their defensive strength, Chad's offensive struggles have been a glaring issue. They remain the only team in the group yet to score a single goal, and their inability to convert opportunities has left them in third place with just two points.

Historically, Chad has never qualified for either the Africa Cup of Nations or the FIFA World Cup. Their lack of experience in major tournaments contrasts sharply with their determination to make a mark in this qualifying campaign. Should they secure a victory on Tuesday, Chad would move to second place in Group G, putting them in a favorable position to claim one of the two automatic qualification spots for the 2025 AFCON. However, their form in recent matches does not inspire much confidence.

Chad’s Recent Struggles: A Search for Form and Goals

Les Sao’s recent performances have been far from ideal. They have failed to win any of their last five matches across all competitions, a run that includes three losses and two draws. Their most recent victory came in March 2024, when they defeated Mauritius 2-1 in an AFCON preliminary round qualifier. Since then, Chad’s form has dipped, and their inability to score has become a major concern.

In those five matches, Chad has conceded five goals while scoring none, further emphasizing their struggles in front of goal. The team’s attacking woes are something head coach Kevin Nicaise will need to address urgently. The squad has not been able to break down opposing defenses, and their lack of creativity and finishing has hampered their progress in the qualifiers. Chad has failed to beat Zambia in three previous encounters, and reversing that trend will be crucial if they are to keep their AFCON dreams alive.

The upcoming match against Zambia presents Chad with a chance to reignite their campaign, but they will need to improve significantly, especially in the attacking third. A win would catapult them to second place in Group G, but given their recent form, it will not be an easy task.

Zambia’s Perspective: Opportunities and Concerns

Zambia, on the other hand, will be looking to capitalize on Chad’s attacking deficiencies and extend their lead in the group. Despite being held to a goalless draw in their last match against Chad, the Chipolopolo dominated possession, controlling 66 percent of the ball. They also created numerous chances, even hitting the woodwork once, but their lack of cutting edge in front of goal was evident.

The stalemate left Zambia in second place in Group G with four points, trailing leaders Ivory Coast by five points. While the result was disappointing, there were positives for Avram Grant’s side, most notably their first clean sheet in 16 matches. This defensive solidity will be something they look to build on as they head into Tuesday’s encounter.

A victory in the return leg against Chad would provide Zambia with a significant boost. It would allow them to pull five points clear of Chad and any other challengers, giving them breathing room as they head into the final two matches of the qualifying campaign next month. Zambia’s primary goal will be to avoid any slip-ups, as they aim to secure one of the two automatic AFCON qualification spots.

Zambia’s Away-Game Woes: Can They Overcome Their Poor Form on the Road?

While Zambia will enter the match as favorites, there are concerns about their recent form away from home. The Chipolopolo have not won in their last four away matches, with their most recent three outings all ending in defeat. This poor run on the road raises doubts about their ability to secure a positive result against Chad, especially given the defensive resilience Les Sao displayed in the first leg.

Zambia’s last trip to Chad in 2006 ended in a 2-0 victory for the Chipolopolo, which was also in an AFCON qualifying match. However, the current Zambian squad will need to improve on their recent away performances if they are to replicate that result. Avram Grant will be aware that a defeat or even a draw in this fixture could open the door for Chad to challenge for second place, adding pressure on his team to deliver a strong performance.

Key Players to Watch

For Chad, much of their hopes will rest on their ability to maintain their defensive discipline. Goalkeeper Dider Djikoloum has been a standout performer in the qualifiers, and his shot-stopping abilities will be crucial in keeping Zambia at bay once again. Captain Marius Mouandilmadji will also play a key role in organizing the defense and ensuring that Chad remains compact and difficult to break down.

In attack, Chad will need someone to step up and deliver the goals they have been sorely missing. While they have struggled to create clear-cut chances, a moment of individual brilliance or a well-executed set-piece could be the key to unlocking Zambia’s defense. Kevin Nicaise may look to make tactical changes to provide more attacking support, possibly by introducing an extra forward or altering their formation to create more opportunities.

Zambia, meanwhile, will look to their attacking players to find the goals that eluded them in the first leg. Forward Kennedy Musonda, who has been in good form for the national team, will be expected to lead the line and test Chad’s defense. Musonda’s pace and finishing ability make him a constant threat, and if he is given space, he could prove to be the difference-maker in the match.

In midfield, the Chipolopolo will rely on the creativity of Enock Mwepu to pull the strings and create opportunities for the forwards. Mwepu’s vision and passing range will be crucial in breaking down Chad’s compact defense. Zambia will also hope for a more clinical performance from their forwards, as they squandered several opportunities in the first leg.

Tactical Battle: Defense Versus Attack

The match between Chad and Zambia is likely to be a tactical battle, with both teams focusing on different aspects of their game. Chad will prioritize their defensive shape, looking to frustrate Zambia as they did in the first leg. Les Sao will likely sit deep, absorb pressure, and try to hit Zambia on the counter-attack or capitalize on set-pieces. Nicaise will emphasize the need for his team to stay compact and disciplined, ensuring that they do not leave gaps for Zambia to exploit.

Zambia, on the other hand, will look to take control of the game from the outset, dominating possession and putting pressure on Chad’s defense. Avram Grant’s side will aim to play a high-tempo, attacking game, using their pace and technical ability to break down Chad’s defensive lines. The Chipolopolo will likely push their full-backs forward to provide width, while Mwepu and the midfielders look to find pockets of space to exploit.

Conclusion: High Stakes and Key Outcomes

With both teams needing a win for different reasons, the stage is set for a tense and competitive encounter at Stade Omnisport Ahmadou Ahidjo. Chad will be desperate to find their first goal of the qualifiers and secure a much-needed victory that could reignite their campaign. A win would move them into second place, giving them a realistic shot at qualifying for their first-ever AFCON tournament.

For Zambia, the goal is clear: extend their lead over Chad and move closer to securing one of the two automatic qualification spots. A victory on Tuesday would allow them to pull five points clear of their rivals and put them in a strong position heading into the final two matches of the group stage.

Both teams have their strengths and weaknesses, and it remains to be seen whether Chad’s defense or Zambia’s attack will prevail. One thing is certain: the outcome of this match could have a significant impact on the race for qualification in Group G.