2023 AFCON Betting Tips: D.R Congo vs Zambia
The 2023 Africa Cup of Nations has roared to life in Ivory Coast, throwing up several shocks as less fancied teams make their presence felt.
The football festival continues on Wednesday, with San Pedro’s Stade Laurent Pokou set to host a fascinating clash in Group F between familiar foes and former champions D.R Congo and Zambia, who meet at a third AFCON after tight encounters in 1974 and 2015. With 2022 World Cup semi-finalists Morocco expected to win the group, this fixture could hold the key to who finishes second behind the North Africans, and recent form suggests a stalemate might be the safest bet.
D.R Congo: Leopards Rekindling the Flame
This marks DR Congo’s 20th AFCON appearance, a return to the continental stage after a three-year absence. While their two title triumphs in 1968 and 1974 (as Zaire) belong to a bygone era, the Leopards are no pushovers. Brentford’s Yoane Wissa, Theo Bongonda, and the prolific Fiston Mayele lead the charge, each hungry to leave their mark on this edition.
However, recent form suggests the Leopards might struggle to change their spots in Ivory Coast. Three draws in their last six outings suggest a preference for controlled play, an aversion to losing, over all-out attack. And remember, Congo DR’s historical AFCON encounters with Zambia have proven to be cagey affairs. Their first AFCON clash came 50 years ago in the final, a match so tight it needed a replay. It was the only replayed final ever, with Congo DR, known then as Zaire, triumphing 2-0 after the first encounter ended in a 2-2 stalemate. They also drew 1-1 in the 2015 group stage.
Zambia: Chipolopolo Seeking to Regain Their Bite
Just like their opponents, Zambia are returning to the AFCON fold after a seven-year hiatus. They lifted the trophy in 2012, under the guidance of Herve Renard, vanquishing Ivory Coast in a penalty shootout, and their 18th AFCON appearance speaks volumes about their pedigree. Former Chelsea boss Avram Grant, at the helm for his third AFCON tournament, brings a wealth of experience, having steered Ghana to the final in 2015 and a fourth-place finish in 2017.
But much like Congo DR, Zambia’s recent record is sprinkled with draws – six in their last seven AFCON matches, to be precise. Their attacking talisman, Patson Daka, remains a threat, but the Chipolopolo have always seemed more focused on defensive solidity at AFCON finals.
Betting Tip: Full-Time Draw
17/01 21:00 D.R Congo – Zambia Full-time Draw @ 2.895 (1xbet)
The historical tendency for draws in this fixture and both sides’ recent form point towards a cagey encounter on Wednesday. Both teams understand the importance of this game and the potential consequences of defeat. Neither will risk throwing caution to the wind, especially with Morocco looming large in the group.
Considering these factors, we recommend betting on a full-time draw at 2.895 on 1xbet. Here’s why:
- Mutual Respect: Both teams know the importance of not losing in this group, especially with Morocco looming. A cautious approach is likely, prioritizing damage control over risky ventures.
- History of Stalemates: Two of their three previous AFCON encounters have ended in draws, hinting at a familiarity that could lead to a cagey affair.
- Recent Form: Both Congo DR’s preference for draws and Zambia’s AFCON draw-fest suggest a tendency for shared spoils rather than decisive victories.
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