The stakes are high as Zamalek SC travels to Ndola, Zambia, to face Zesco United in a crucial CAF Confederation Cup Group Stage match on . Both teams are keenly aware of the importance of this fixture as they navigate the competition’s group phase.
Zamalek Aiming to Solidify Group Lead
Zamalek enters this contest focused on securing the top spot in Group D. Manager Moatez Gamal is prioritizing a positive result – either a win or a draw – to ensure a safe passage to the knockout stages and avoid potential complications later in the tournament. Having already secured a victory in the reverse fixture on November 23, Zamalek will look to replicate that success on Zambian soil.
Zesco United Fight for Survival
For Zesco United, the match represents a final opportunity to remain competitive in the Confederation Cup. Facing an uphill battle, the Zambian side is determined to upset the Egyptian giants, leveraging the passionate support of their home crowd at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium. The atmosphere promises to be electric, adding another layer of intensity to an already important encounter.
Match Details and Kick-off Times
The match is scheduled to kick off at Zambian time, which corresponds to in Cairo and Jerusalem, and in Dubai. The game will be played at the historic Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola, Zambia.
Where to Watch
Fans in the Middle East and North Africa can watch the match live on beIN SPORTS HD 1. For those seeking digital streaming options, the game will be available on TOD and beIN Connect, offering comprehensive coverage including pre-match analysis and live updates. FuboTV is also offering live coverage of the match on beIN SPORTS 7, starting at .
Team Lineups and Formations
Zesco United will field a 4-3-3 formation featuring Opiyo, Chilongoshi, Chongo, Chabala, Mayembe, Obame, Mutoshi, Mulenga, Siankombo, Hiver, and Manda. Zamalek will mirror that formation with their own lineup. The starting eleven for Zamalek was not specified in available sources.
Current Standings
As of , Zamalek leads Group D with 8 points from 4 matches (2 wins, 2 draws, 0 losses, +2 goal difference). Al-Masry and Kaizer Chiefs are tied for second with 5 points each, while Zesco United remains at the bottom of the group with 0 points (0 wins, 0 draws, 4 losses, -4 goal difference).
Competitive Context and Implications
Zamalek’s strong position in the group allows them some flexibility, but a win against Zesco United would virtually guarantee their progression to the knockout stages. A draw would also be a favorable outcome, but a loss could potentially open the door for Al-Masry or Kaizer Chiefs to challenge for the top spot. For Zesco United, a victory is essential to keep their Confederation Cup hopes alive, although their chances of qualification remain slim given their current standing. The match also carries significance for both clubs in terms of continental prestige and potential financial rewards associated with advancing in the tournament.
Other CAF Confederation Cup Matches
Elsewhere in the CAF Confederation Cup, AS Otohô will face Stellenbosch, and Kaizer Chiefs will host Al Masry. Stellenbosch is in a difficult position at the bottom of Group C, needing a win to revive their campaign. Kaizer Chiefs, following a recent loss in the Nedbank Cup, will be looking to rebound with a strong performance against Al Masry.
Odds and Predictions
According to available odds, Zamalek is favored to win the match. The odds for a Zesco United win are +225, a draw is +650, and a Zamalek win is +110. Over 1.5 goals are priced at -195, while under 1.5 goals are at +330. These odds reflect Zamalek’s superior form and position in the group, but also acknowledge the potential for a competitive match given Zesco United’s home advantage and desperation for a result.
