Zambia vs Morocco prediction 29.12.2025 | AFCON

Zambia enter this final group match still searching for their first competitive win of AFCON 2025/26, having drawn both of their opening fixtures - 0-0 against Comoros and 1-1 versus Mali - leaving them on two points. Their tournament so far has been characterised by defensive solidity, but a clear lack of cutting edge in the final third. In the draw with Mali, the statistics reflected their limited attacking threat, with Zambia registering their only shots on target in the second half. While their total pass count indicated improved build-up play, it failed to translate into a decisive end product.

This leaves the final group match as a potentially make-or-break affair for Zambia’s qualification hopes. A victory would guarantee their place in the Round of 16, while a draw could still be enough if Mali fail to beat Comoros in the other group fixture. However, goal difference would then likely determine who secures the second qualifying spot.

There have been no major injury concerns reported in the Zambian camp ahead of this match, suggesting head coach Moses Sichone will be able to field his strongest available XI as his side chase a crucial three points.

Morocco’s AFCON campaign has been mixed but competitive. After a 2-0 opening win over Comoros, the Atlas Lions were held to a 1-1 draw by Mali, bringing a notable unbeaten streak to an end. Despite playing on home soil, Morocco have shown occasional vulnerability, although they still top the group with four points.

They have not been as dominant as much of the football community expected, though, particularly given their impressive run of results - mostly wins - since the 2022 World Cup. Morocco’s famous winning streak after March 2024 reached at least 19 consecutive victories in senior internationals before being halted by the draw against Mali. Walid Regragui’s side have suffered just two defeats in 23 matches since the 2022 World Cup, yet their recent performances have not consistently displayed elite-level dominance. As a result, a defensively disciplined Zambian side will approach this encounter believing they have a genuine chance of upsetting the host nation.

From a fitness perspective, Morocco have generally fielded strong line-ups, although rotation and minor knocks remain possible due to the tournament’s congested schedule. Achraf Hakimi, however, is still not fully fit and is expected to start on the bench.