Mali vs Zambia prediction, H2H and probable lineups - 22 December 2025
One of the opening fixtures of the Africa Cup of Nations will take place on Monday at the Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca, where Mali will go head to head with Zambia. Here’s a prediction for the outcome of this clash, with a solid chance of success.
Match preview
Mali comes into this match on the back of a decent run of results, suffering only one defeat in their last five outings. Their sole setback came in a 2026 World Cup qualifier against Ghana (0-1). Overall, Mali finished third in their qualifying group, trailing only Ghana and Madagascar, the latter edging them out by a single point.
In preparation for the Africa Cup of Nations, Belgian coach Tom Saintfiet’s side played just one friendly, ending in a goalless draw against Jordan. It’s important to note that Mali will be without key defender Hamari Traoré from Paris FC for this match. The defender picked up a minor injury and will miss part of the tournament.
Zambia, on the other hand, played three friendlies as part of their preparations for AFCON and lost all three: against South Africa (1-3), Angola (0-2), and DR Congo (0-2). These results hardly inspire confidence in Moses Sichone’s squad.
Moreover, Zambia also struggled in World Cup qualification, finishing second from bottom in their group. At the last Africa Cup of Nations, the “Chipolopolo” disappointed again, finishing last in their section. Few believe in Zambia’s chances this time around, but this is a team with a history of surprises—just remember their stunning 2012 AFCON triumph.
Match facts and head-to-head
- Mali are unbeaten in their last three matches.
- Five of Mali’s last seven games featured fewer than three goals.
- Zambia have conceded in each of their last four matches.
- Zambia have conceded first in seven of their last eight games.
- These teams have never met before at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Probable lineups
- Mali: Samassa – Coulibaly W., Camara, Fofana, Dante – Sangare, Dieng, Coulibaly L. – Doumbia, Nene, Touré
- Zambia: Mulenga – Banda, Musonda, Chanda, Hamansenya – Phiri, Simukonda, Chaiwa, Sakala – Kangwa, Daka
Prediction
At this stage, I believe Mali are clearly the stronger side compared to Zambia. It’s hard to see the Zambians putting up a real fight against their opponents. Yes, Zambia has a history of springing surprises in tournaments like this, but such an upset seems unlikely here. My prediction: a win for Mali.
