Match Preview: Argentina vs Zambia Prediction, Predicted Lineups, Head-to-Head | International Friendly

After the cancellation of the Finalissima, Argentina arranged two international friendlies to prepare for the upcoming FIFA World Cup. They recently faced Mauritania and will now take on Zambia, marking the first-ever meeting between the World Champions and the Zambian national team.

Despite their status as a top-quality side, Argentina struggled against Mauritania, narrowly winning 2-1. Their performance lacked intensity, and many fans were left disappointed. Coach Lionel Scaloni will be hoping his team avoids similar lapses against Zambia and can raise their standards in this next test.

Zambia, meanwhile, return to international action for the first time in 2026 after a disappointing AFCON campaign. Traveling to Buenos Aires, they’ll face the daunting task of challenging the reigning World Champions. While there’s a clear gap in quality, this match gives Zambia’s players a big stage to showcase themselves, and they’ll need to be at their best to trouble Argentina. With plenty at stake for both sides, this promises to be an exciting and closely watched fixture.

Match Details

• Match: Argentina Vs Zambia
• Date: Wednesday, 1 April
• Time: 04:45 AM IST
• Venue: La Bombonera Stadium
• League: International Friendly

Head-to-Head Record

• This match will mark the first-ever international meeting between Argentina and Zambia, making it a historic occasion for both teams.

Argentina Analysis

Argentina will be without Leonardo Balerdi and Gonzalo Montiel, both sidelined with injuries. Joaquin Panichelli also faces a long-term absence after suffering an ACL injury. Aside from these setbacks, the rest of the squad is fully fit and available for selection.

Zambia Analysis

Zambia will be without Rafael Leão, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Rodrigo Mora for this friendly, as all three missed out due to injuries. Their absence will be a blow to the squad, but Zambia still have plenty of quality to challenge the United States.

Predicted Lineups

Argentina Lineup

Goalkeeper: Martínez 
Defenders: Molina, Romero, Senesi, Acuña
Midfielders: Fernández, Mac Allister
Forwards: Almada, Paz, González, Álvarez

Zambia Lineup

Goalkeeper: Mwanza 
Defenders: Chanda, Sinkala, Chiboni, Mwamba
Midfielders: Chisala, Chaiwa, Mulambia, Tembo
Forwards: Sakala, Daka

Key Players to Watch

• The young talent is in excellent form and looks set to be part of Argentina’s squad for the upcoming World Cup. He showed his quality in the last game by scoring a brilliant free kick, highlighting his ability to change a match.
• Paz is an all-around player with the vision, skill, and work rate to make a real impact on the field. If he continues performing at this level, he could soon be fighting for a starting spot. Coach Lionel Scaloni clearly trusts him, and he has the capability to deliver when it matters most. This season, he’s featured in 29 matches, scoring 10 goals and providing six assists, underlining his influence and consistency.
• Daka, who plays for Leicester City, is known for his blistering pace, intelligent movement off the ball, and sharp one-touch finishing. Argentina’s defence showed vulnerabilities in their last game, and Daka will be looking to exploit any similar opportunities against the World Champions.
• Although his club form this season has been below par, he’ll be motivated to give his best for Zambia on the international stage. So far this season, he’s featured in 35 matches, scoring three goals and providing three assists, and he’ll hope to make a bigger impact in this high-profile friendly.

Match Prediction

Argentina are the stronger side on paper and, playing at home, they enter this match as clear favourites. Zambia will be making their first appearance of 2026 and will look to test the World Champions, but the quality gap is evident.

Expect the hosts to control the game and secure a comfortable victory.

Prediction: Argentina 3-0 Zambia.

Where to Watch

Live Stream, TV:

USA: beIN Sports