Southern African duo Zambia and Zimbabwe go head-to-head in a specially arranged four nations tournament this week, with both sides hoping to make it through to Sunday’s final. With both nations in the unusual position of being able to call up both domestic and European-based players, many are predicting a close encounter in Ndola.
International Friendly – Levy Mwanawasa Stadium, Ndola – Wednesday 21st March – 16:00 UK Time
Zambia vs Zimbabwe Match Preview
Zambia and Zimbabwe meet in a friendly encounter on Wednesday afternoon, with the duo both hoping to record a positive result following indifferent sets of form in 2017. Zimbabwe having generally had the better of things when looking at their head-to-head record, however their home status this week means that it is Zambia who are the narrow favourites for victory. However, those still unsure of who to back ahead of the match should be sure to check out our top betting tip below. However, let’s first take a closer look at the two teams, starting with the home side.
Zambia Team News & Form
Zambia come into the clash currently ranked 76th in the FIFA world rankings, however they are coming off the back of a disappointing World Cup qualifying campaign. The pressure is on Head Coach Wedson Nyirenda as a result, with the former Under-20 boss having named an experimental playing squad for their upcoming matches. Alanyaspor midfielder Chisamba Lungu could earn a 50th international cap against Zimbabwe, while there are a whole host of potential debutants for the hosts also.
Zimbabwe Team News & Form
Having played just three international matches last year, all coming against Namibia, Zimbabwe will be looking to make progress under manager Sunday Chidzambwa. However, with many of their most experienced players missing, it promises to be a tough 90 minutes for the visitors. Their playing squad contains two men plying their trade in the English Football League, while 29-year-old striker Ovidy Karuru is likely to lead the line, having scored seven goals in 25 appearances to date.
Zambia vs Zimbabwe Head to Head
The two nations have met 35 times in the past, with Zambia having won 16 of such matches, as well as registering 20 draws in the process. However, Zimbabwe have won the last three clashes between the African rivals, including an impressive 3-1 success in the COSAFA Cup back in July last year. In fact, you have to look back to 2013 in order to find the last win for Zambia.
Zambia vs Zimbabwe Betting Odds and Predictions
Despite their recent struggles, their status as the home team on Wednesday means that it comes as little surprise that it is Zambia who are the favourites for victory with the majority of major online bookmakers. The hosts can be backed for victory at best odds of 6/5 with bookmaker William Hill, while those looking to bet on a success for Zimbabwe can get a price of 21/10 on the same platform. Meanwhile, a draw between the two is available at odds of 2/1 with Coral.
Zambia vs Zimbabwe Betting Tip
However, our top betting tip for the match is to bet on there being over 2.5 goals during the 90 minutes on Wednesday, which is available at odds of 7/5 with bookmaker Ladbrokes.