Reigning champions Zambia need at least one point from their second group game after failing to justify the favourites tag against Ethiopia, whereas Nigeria will fell hard done by after conceding the equalizer against Burkina Faso with the last kick of the game.

In spite of some under par showings in warm-up games, which included a defeat to Angola and goalless draws against Morocco and Norway, the Chipolopolo were seen as hot favourites in their opening match against Ethiopia.

The wretched playing surface, however, made life difficult for Herve Renard’s men, as they largely struggled during the first period, but after Collins Mbesuma scored the opening goal just before the half-time break, Zambia looked to be cruising towards victory.

Despite being reduced to ten men, Ethiopia produced a very good performance and eventually scored a deserved equalizer, leaving the Chipolopolo in problems ahead of the clash with Nigeria.

As a result, Zambia now need to win this game in order to make amends for the opening draw, with home win paying 3.40 (12/5) at bet365.

Midfielder Chisamba Lungu should be fit to start after recovering from a foot injury, meaning we could see the same side that started the Ethiopia game.

Probable starting line-up (4-1-2-1-2): Mweene – Mkausu, Himoonde, Sunzu, Musonda – Sinkala – Chansa, Lungu – Kalaba – Katongo, Mbesuma.

Nigeria arrived in South Africa high on confidence, following some very good showings in warm-up games, and they looked well prepared for their opening fixture.

The absence of influential winger Victor Moses didn’t prove to be a problem as the Super Eagles largely dominated the match against Burkina Faso and should have been at least two goals up instead of one when Efe Ambrose picked up a red card 15 minutes from time.

It was that event that changed the course of the game and helped Burkinabe get back into the match, although they were very fortunate to score the equalizer deep into injury time.

Boss Stephen Keshi has made a promise to national team chiefs that his side will beat Zambia during a crisis meeting in the aftermath of the Burkina Faso match, and SkyBet pays 2.40 (7/5) if he keeps his word.

The chances of this happening will increase a great deal if Victor Moses proves his fitness, and the latest reports suggest the Chelsea star will be in the starting line-up.

Defence, on the other hand, could be severely weakened if Joseph Yobo fails to recover from injury, especially seeing that Efe Ambrose is suspended.

Probable starting line-up (4-4-2): Enyeama – Omeruo, Yobo, Oboabona, Echiejile – Moses, Mikel, Ogude, Musa – Emenike, Ideye.

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