Argentina vs Zambia Prediction

🔵 In recent years, Argentina have consistently reinforced their status as one of the world's top national teams, regularly adding to their trophy cabinet and rarely slipping up. Their qualification for the 2026 World Cup was smooth sailing: they amassed 38 points over 18 matches, securing a commanding first place among South American teams with a significant lead over their nearest rivals, Ecuador, who finished with 29 points.

⚪ In March, Argentina initially planned to face Spain in the Finalissima, but stadium issues led to the match being canceled. As a result, the Albiceleste had to quickly find opponents for friendly matches, eventually settling on Mauritania and Zambia. The encounter with Mauritania was expected to be a formality, with many predicting a lopsided scoreline. However, the reality proved more challenging. Argentina managed only a narrow victory (2-1), despite being outshot (7 to 11) and even trailing in xG (0.67 to 0.87). Considering the flow of the game, the South Americans can count themselves fortunate to have secured a positive result.

🟢 It's hard to consider Zambia among the stronger national teams, even by African standards. The team had a disappointing run in the Africa Cup of Nations three months ago, managing just two points in the group stage, finishing last, and making an early exit. Prior to that, the Chipolopolo also failed to secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup, ending up fourth out of six in their qualifying group with only 9 points from 8 matches, despite the level of competition suggesting they could have at least contended for second place.

🟠 Since the start of 2026, Zambia hasn't played any matches, making their encounter with Argentina their first in a long stretch. This adds an element of uncertainty in assessing the team's current form. However, it's worth noting that the squad remains largely unchanged, which should mean there are no significant issues with on-field chemistry.