Zambia faces Ivory Coast in a decisive Group G match today as they aim to secure qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco. With kickoff imminent, both teams have revealed their starting lineups for this crucial encounter on the fifth day of the qualifiers.
Zambia, under coach Avram Grant, fields a strong side as they seek to capitalize on their home advantage.
Benson Sakala has been left out of the starting XI, with Obino Chisala joining Kennedy Musonda and Stoppila Sunzu in the attacking lineup.
The midfield will be controlled by Emmanuel Banda, Gift Mphande, and Kabaso Chongo.
Ivory Coast, having already secured qualification, enters the match without the same level of pressure. However, coach Emerse Faé has opted for a competitive lineup despite making a few changes.
Ousmane Diomande returns to central defense alongside Evan Ndicka, forming the same partnership that anchored their AFCON 2023-winning campaign. Jean-Eudes Aholou starts in midfield alongside Franck Kessié and Seko Fofana, while Christopher Operi and Wilfried Singo retain their places on the defensive flanks.
The Ivorian attack will be led by Jean-Philippe Krasso, supported on the wings by Simon Adingra and Evan Guessand.
Official Lineups
Zambia:
Goalkeeper: Toaster Nsabata
Defenders: Kelvin Kapumbu, Kelvin Kampamba (C)
Midfielders: Kings Kangwa, Joseph Sabobo, Emmanuel Banda, Gift Mphande, Kabaso Chongo
Forwards: Kennedy Musonda, Obino Chisala, Stoppila Sunzu
Ivory Coast:
Goalkeeper: Yahia Fofana
Defenders: Christopher Operi, Evan Ndicka, Ousmane Diomande, Wilfried Singo
Midfielders: Seko Fofana, Jean-Eudes Aholou, Franck Kessié (C)
Forwards: Simon Adingra, Jean-Philippe Krasso, Evan Guessand
The stakes are high for Zambia as they look to book their place in Morocco, while Ivory Coast will aim to maintain their momentum and finish the qualifiers in style.
Kickoff is just moments away, and fans are eagerly anticipating an exciting battle.
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