Zambia Face Early AFCON Qualifying Test Against Togo
Zambia will look to respond to their opening-day defeat when they welcome Togo to Levy Mwanawasa Stadium on Tuesday in a crucial Group I clash in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
The Chipolopolo began their campaign with a 3-1 defeat to Algeria, leaving them needing a positive result at home to avoid falling further behind in the group.
Togo, meanwhile, arrive in Ndola with confidence after opening their campaign with a 2-1 victory over Burundi. The result put the Sparrowhawks second in Group I, level on points with leaders Algeria.
For Togo coach Patrice Neveu, the opening victory has provided an early boost, but he expects a completely different challenge against Zambia.
“We are pleased to have started this first qualifying round with a home win, which still gives my team confidence,” Neveu said.
Neveu expects a tough Zambia test
Neveu was quick to dismiss the suggestion that Togo have an advantage simply because Zambia lost their opening match.
The French coach pointed out that Zambia’s defeat came against Algeria, whom he regards as one of the strongest teams in the group.
He also highlighted his familiarity with Zambian football and the quality within the current Chipolopolo squad.
“We are very respectful of your team’s quality, but we have made the trip to get a result.”
The Togo coach also expects Zambia’s home support to play a role, with a sizeable crowd anticipated at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium.
History favours Togo
The head-to-head record adds another layer to Tuesday’s contest.
Zambia and Togo have met four times, with Togo winning three of those encounters and Zambia claiming one victory.
However, the Chipolopolo will be focused on the present rather than past meetings as they attempt to get their qualification campaign back on track.
With Algeria already on three points and Togo also having started with a win, another dropped result could leave Zambia with plenty of ground to recover in Group I.
Tuesday’s clash in Ndola therefore carries added importance for both sides — Togo looking to maintain their early momentum and Zambia searching for their first points of the campaign.
