Namibia will play host to Zimbabwe at Orlando Stadium in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers on Thursday. Both teams need to revive their campaigns on this matchday before it is too late.
Namibia vs Zimbabwe Preview
Namibia are in search of their first win in Group J, after losing twice in their last two matches, which leaves them bottom of the group. A further setback could put them in a difficult situation from which they may not recover. Kenya and Cameroon are leading the group on four points each. Only the first two teams will qualify.
Namibia's Warriors will take confidence from their impressive head-to-head record against Zimbabwe heading into this clash. The hosts have won six out of their last eight matches against Zimbabwe in all competitions. However, the visitors look competitive in this campaign and could be a tough opponent for Namibia.
Zimbabwe sit third in the group on two points following draws against Kenya and Cameroon in their previous two games. A win at Orlando Stadium could move them top of the group if Kenya and Cameroon cancel each other out. While pundits have praised Zimbabwe’s defense, their attack has been horrible.
The Warriors are seeking to make a return to the continental scene following their disqualification due to a FIFA suspension ahead of the 2023 Afcon. Both Namibia and Zimbabwe are winless in their last three matches in all competitions. Zimbabwe last prevailed over Namibia in a 2017 clash.
Namibia vs Zimbabwe Head-to-Head and Key Numbers
- Namibia have won four times and lost once in their last five matches against Zimbabwe.
- Namibia have participated in the Africa Cup of Nations four times as opposed to five for Zimbabwe.
- Namibia have reached the Afcon round of 16 once while Zimbabwe have never progressed beyond the group stage.
- Zimbabwe have scored three goals and conceded twice in their last five matches in all competitions.
- Namibia have won twice and lost thrice in their last five matches while Zimbabwe have won twice, drawn twice and lost once. Form Guide: Namibia – L-L-L-W-W, Zimbabwe – D-D-L-W-W.
Namibia vs Zimbabwe Prediction
Namibia can’t afford a third back-to-back defeat. They are expected to pull out all the stops to snatch a convenient result against their familiar opponents.
Zimbabwe will host Namibia four days after the first clash. Even if the first meeting does not work out, Zimbabwe could make amends at home.
Namibia come into the match as the favorites based on determination.
Prediction: Namibia 2-1 Zimbabwe
Namibia vs Zimbabwe Betting Tips
Tip 1: Result – Namibia to win
Tip 2: Game to have over 2.5 goals – Yes
Tip 3: Namibia to score first – Yes
Tip 4: Zimbabwe to score - Yes