Algeria face Zambia seeking fresh start in Africa Cup of Nations qualifying

Algeria host Zambia on Friday, 25 September 2026, in Group I of the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, with the Fennecs aiming to revive their campaign after an inconsistent run of results.

Kick-off is scheduled for 19:00 GMT at the Hocine Ait Ahmed stadium in Tizi Ouzou, Algeria. The match will be broadcast by beIN Sports, Canal+ Afrique, SuperSport and SABC Sport.

Algeria will be expected to take control against a Zambia side struggling for form, although the hosts must improve defensively if they are to turn their attacking threat into victory.

The Fennecs have recorded two wins, one draw and two defeats in their past five matches. They have scored nine goals during that period, but have also conceded nine, highlighting the contrast between their effectiveness in attack and their lack of defensive consistency.

Zambia’s recent record is significantly worse. The Chipolopolo have failed to win any of their last five games, drawing twice and losing three times. They have scored only three goals and conceded 12 across those fixtures.

Previous meetings

The recent head-to-head record is relatively even. Algeria have won three of the last six meetings between the two countries, while Zambia have claimed two victories. The other encounter ended in a draw.

That record suggests the visitors have caused Algeria problems in the past, but their current form leaves them facing a difficult task in Tizi Ouzou.

Possible line-ups and prediction

Algeria start the contest as the more likely winners on paper, based on their recent results and Zambia’s ongoing difficulties. The Fennecs’ chances will depend on maintaining greater defensive discipline and taking advantage of the opportunities they create.

Africafoot’s prediction is a 3-1 win for Algeria.

This fixture will be Algeria’s opening match in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign. Zambia will also be looking to begin the group stage with a result capable of changing the direction of their recent run.

Betting company 1xbet has Algeria as clear favourites, offering odds of 1.31 for a home win. A draw is priced at 4.40, while a Zambia victory is listed at 7.75.