The road to Morocco 2025 heats up this weekend with Matchday 5 of the AFCON 2025 qualifiers. The stakes are higher than ever, with numerous teams battling for coveted spots in the continental showpiece. This weekend promises a captivating display of footballing talent, tactical battles, and potentially decisive results. Here’s an in-depth preview of some key encounters:
AFCON 2025 Qualifiers Matchday 5 Preview
Friday, November 15th:
- Zambia vs Côte d’Ivoire (Levy Mwanawasa Stadium, Ndola): This Group G clash is a pivotal encounter with significant implications for qualification. Côte d’Ivoire currently sits atop the group, showcasing their strength with impressive performances. Zambia, however, is hot on their heels and determined to secure a victory on home turf. The Chipolopolo will be relying on the passionate support of their fans at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium to propel them forward. The Elephants, with their star-studded squad featuring the likes of Sébastien Haller, Wilfried Zaha, and Franck Kessié, will be a formidable challenge. Expect a tense and tactical affair with both teams aware of the high stakes.
- Prediction: Côte d’Ivoire to secure a hard-fought victory.
- Betting Tip: Both Teams to Score (BTTS) and Over 2.5 goals. The attacking talent on display suggests an entertaining and potentially high-scoring encounter.
- Uganda vs South Africa (Mandela National Stadium, Kampala): Group K leaders Uganda welcome South Africa to the iconic Mandela National Stadium in a match that could significantly influence the final standings. The Cranes have been in excellent form throughout the qualifiers, displaying a potent attacking force and a solid defensive unit. South Africa, however, will be no pushovers. Bafana Bafana will be determined to disrupt Uganda’s momentum and secure a crucial away victory. This match promises to be a captivating contest between two evenly matched-sides.
- Prediction: Uganda to maintain their strong form with a narrow win.
- Betting Tip: Uganda to win and Over 1.5 goals.
- Zimbabwe vs Kenya (Orlando Stadium, Johannesburg): This Group J clash sees two teams desperate for a victory to boost their qualification hopes. Zimbabwe, currently occupying the second spot, will be aiming to utilize their home advantage and secure maximum points. The Warriors will be relying on the experience and goal-scoring prowess of Tawanda Chirewa to lead their attack. Kenya, however, will be no easy feat. The Harambee Stars, with Michael Olunga spearheading their attack, possess the firepower to trouble any defense. Expect a closely fought encounter with both teams pushing for a win.
- Prediction: Zimbabwe to edge out Kenya in a tight contest.
- Betting Tip: Zimbabwe to win and Both Teams to Score (BTTS).
- Gabon vs Morocco (Stade de la Rénovation, Franceville): Group B’s second-placed Gabon hosts leaders Morocco in a match that could have a significant impact on the group’s final standings. Morocco has been in imperious form, dominating their opponents with a perfect record so far. Gabon, however, will be a stern test for the Atlas Lions. Expect a tactical battle with both teams cautious of conceding an early goal.
- Prediction: Morocco to maintain their winning streak with a narrow victory.
- Betting Tip: Morocco to win and Under 2.5 goals.
Saturday, November 16th:
- Guinea vs DR Congo (Stade d´Ebimpe, Abidjan): This Group H encounter pits two teams with contrasting fortunes against each other. DR Congo currently leads the group with a flawless record, showcasing their dominance in the qualifiers. Guinea, on the other hand, will be aiming to bounce back from previous setbacks and close the gap on the leaders. Expect a high-intensity match with both teams eager to secure a positive result. DR Congo’s attacking duo of Cédric Bakambu and Théo Bongonda will pose a significant threat to the Guinean defense.
- Prediction: DR Congo to continue their impressive run with a victory.
- Betting Tip: DR Congo to win and Over 1.5 goals.
Other Notable Matches:
- Botswana vs Mauritania (Friday): Group C clash with Botswana aiming to cause an upset against Mauritania.
- Cape Verde vs Egypt (Friday): Group C encounter with Egypt already qualified, potentially providing an opportunity for Cape Verde.
- Mozambique vs Mali (Friday): Group I top-of-the-table clash with both teams vying for the top spot.
- Angola vs Ghana (Friday): Crucial Group F match with both teams desperate for a win to boost their qualification hopes.
- Ethiopia vs Tanzania (Saturday): Group H clash with both teams searching for their first victory in the qualifiers.
This Matchday 5 promises to be a thrilling chapter in the AFCON 2025 qualifying campaign. Be sure to follow these key matches as teams leave it all on the field in their quest to secure a place in the continental showpiece in Morocco.
Disclaimer: These predictions and betting tips are solely for informational purposes. Please gamble responsibly.
Related article: Uganda vs South Africa: AFCON 2025 Qualifiers Preview – Predictions, Betting Tips, Kick-Off