Check out our preview for Monday's African Cup of Nations match between Mali & Zambia including predicted lineups and a 6/1 betting tip.
Mali vs Zambia
| Tournament: | African Cup of Nations |
|---|---|
| Venue: | Stade Mohammed V, Casablanca, Morocco. |
| Date: | 22.12.2025 |
| Time: | 14:00 GMT |
Mali vs Zambia Form and Head to Head Record
Mali's most recent match was a goalless draw in an international friendly against Jordan. The Eagles have shown decent form in their recent World Cup Qualification matches, winning three of their last five, including a 4-1 victory over Madagascar. However, they also suffered defeats against Ghana and DR Congo.
Zambia suffered a 2-0 defeat to DR Congo in their most recent international friendly. The Copper Bullets have struggled recently, losing three consecutive pre-tournament friendlies and four matches in a row overall. Their last victory came in a World Cup Qualification match against Niger, which they won 1-0.
The last time Mali and Zambia met, Mali emerged victorious with a 1-0 win in an international friendly in 2022.
Across the last six matches between these two nations, Mali have won once and there have been five draws.
Mali vs Zambia Probable Lineups
Mali (4-2-3-1): Samassa; Dante, Fofana, Camara, Coulibaly; Sangaré, Dieng; Nene, Doumbia, Coulibaly; Sinayoko
Zambia (4-2-3-1): Mulenga; Hamansenya, Chanda, Musonda, Banda; Tembo, Simukonda; Sakala, Kangwa, Phiri; Daka
Mali have a fitness concern surrounding Yves Bissouma, who is doubtful due to a knee issue. His potential absence could impact Mali's midfield control, but Aliou Dieng and Mamadou Sangaré are capable replacements.
Who are the betting favourites in Mali vs Zambia?
Mali are 4/6 favourites to open their African Cup of Nations campaign with a victory. The draw is a best price of 5/2, whilst Zambia are 5/1 underdogs on Monday.
| Mali vs Zambia Match Result | Best Odds | Bookmaker |
|---|---|---|
| Mali Win | 4/6 | William Hill |
| Draw | 5/2 | BetMGM |
| Zambia Win | 5/1 | Betfred |
Odds last updated at 09:50, Monday 22nd December.
Bally Bet
Mali vs Zambia Match Prediction
Mali enter their AFCON 2025 Group A opener against Zambia as the more settled side, with recent World Cup qualifying wins and a strong sense of tactical structure under experienced tournament coach Tom Saintfiet.
The Eagles look well placed to control possession and tempo, especially against a Zambia side arriving short on confidence after four straight defeats and a turbulent coaching change.
While Zambia will hope new head coach Moses Sichone can spark an immediate response, their recent struggles suggest cohesion may be an issue early on.
With Morocco also in the group, Mali know early points are vital and should approach this fixture with authority.
A disciplined Mali performance, built on control rather than risk, could see them edge a tight but telling Group A contest.
Score Prediction: Mali 1-0 Zambia
Mali vs Zambia Betting Tip
Our Bet Builder Tip for Mali vs Zambia is:
Kamory Doumbia - 1+ Shot on Target
Patson Daka - 1+ Shot on Target
Under 2.5 Match Goals
Best odds of 13/2 available at BetMGM during publishing.
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