Comoros vs Mali prediction, H2H and probable lineups - December 29, 2025
One of the final round matches in the group stage of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations will take place on Monday at the Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca, where Comoros will face Mali. Let’s take a closer look at a bet on the outcome of this clash, which offers solid chances for success.
Match preview
The Comoros national team entered the tournament well-organized but posing minimal attacking threat. They failed to score in both of their matches—first falling 0-2 to hosts Morocco, then playing out a goalless draw with Zambia. At this Africa Cup of Nations, Comoros have bet on discipline and restraint, but their complete lack of goals and limited attacking resources make their position in the group critical. The issue of converting chances is particularly acute.
Stefano Cuzena’s side still have a shot at the playoffs, but to do so, they must beat Mali and hope for a favorable result elsewhere. The teams have already met in the 2025 World Cup qualifiers, with Comoros losing both encounters by the same scoreline: 0-3. That statistic paints a realistic picture ahead of this game. Despite a respectable defensive effort, it will be tough for Comoros to change the script without significant attacking reinforcement.
Mali come into the final round as one of the favorites to advance, having drawn both of their matches—against Zambia and the tournament hosts, Morocco. In both games, Sinayoko found the net from the penalty spot, and the striker is now the team's main hope up front. Against Morocco, Thomas Sintfiet’s squad showed maturity, withstanding the pressure from the favorites and earning a crucial point.
Mali’s defense is rock-solid: just 4 goals conceded in their last six official matches. The team’s experience and class are evident in their stability and ability to manage the game. Unlike Comoros, Mali have already defeated their current opponent twice this year and enjoy a clear advantage in head-to-head meetings. A win would guarantee Mali a spot in the next round—and given the gap in quality, that’s a very realistic target.
Probable lineups
- Comoros: Pandor, Abdallah, Toibibu, Soilihi, Bura, Bakari, Burhan, Z. Youssouf, M’Changama, Maolida, Said
- Mali: Diarra, V. Koulibaly, Diaby, O. Camara, Gassama, Dieng, Doumbia, L. Koulibaly, Sangare, Bissouma, Sinayoko
Match facts and head-to-head
- Mali have beaten Comoros twice in 2025, with a combined score of 6-0.
- Comoros have not scored at AFCON 2025
- Mali are unbeaten in their last five matches
Prediction
Both teams still have a theoretical chance to reach the playoffs, but the reality is that Comoros lag far behind in both quality and statistics. They have yet to score a goal in the tournament and are unlikely to break through Mali’s solid and stable defense. Considering the head-to-head record, form, and lineups, we predict a clean-sheet victory for Mali.