Mali and Zambia meet in an Africa Cup of Nations tie on Monday 22nd December 2025 at 14:00 GMT. Find predictions, stats and betting tips for the Africa Cup of Nations fixture below in this match preview.
| Match Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Competition | CAF Africa Cup of Nations |
| Matchday | 1 |
| Date | Monday 22 December 2025 |
| Kick-off Time | 14:00 GMT |
| Venue | Stade Mohammed V, Casablanca |
| Broadcast | Sky Sports |
| Market | Prediction | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| Full-Time Result | Mali | ★★★★☆ |
| Correct Score | 1-0 | ★★★☆☆ |
| Both Teams to Score | No | ★★★☆☆ |
| Over/Under 2.5 Goals | Under 2.5 | ★★★☆☆ |
Analysis: While there is no historical data or recent form available for these two sides in this competition, the odds reflect Mali’s status as favourites, with a relatively low price on the home win (4/7). Instead, the correct score market offers a much more appealing price. A 1-0 scoreline in favour of Mali is plausible given their strong defensive reputation in African football and the typically cagey nature of opening fixtures at major tournaments. With both sides yet to register goals or matches in the current campaign, this low-scoring angle is justified, and the 9/2 price is a significant enhancement over the match odds. Bet365 offers the top price for this selection.
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Analysis: El Bilal Touré is the focal point of Mali’s attack and one of the team’s most consistent goal threats heading into this Group A fixture. He leads Mali’s forward line, combining physical presence with clinical finishing, and is expected to start centrally in a role designed to get him in scoring positions throughout the match. Touré has already scored multiple goals for Mali this season and his club form – including regular goal contributions for Beşiktaş – shows he carries significant goal threat.
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Both sides begin their campaigns here, with squads containing a blend of domestic and overseas-based talent. Neither team has registered goals scored, goals conceded, or any other performance statistics in the current standing.
Mali are traditionally well-organised defensively, favouring a compact midfield and a patient build-up, often lining up in a 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3 formation. Their emphasis on structure and discipline usually translates into low-scoring, controlled matches, especially in tournament openers. Zambia, meanwhile, have historically been more dynamic going forward, often deploying a 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1, with pace on the flanks and a direct approach. Patson Daka is expected to spearhead their attack, while Mali’s midfield trio could dictate the tempo and keep Zambia’s creative outlets in check.
| Statistic | Mali | Zambia |
|---|---|---|
| League Position | N/A | N/A |
| Goals Scored | 0 | 0 |
| Goals Conceded | 0 | 0 |
| xG (Expected Goals) | N/A | N/A |
| xGA (Expected Goals Against) | N/A | N/A |
| 06 Apr 1994 | Zambia v Mali | L | 4-0 | Africa Cup of Nations |
| 10 Jan 2002 | Mali v Zambia | D | 1-1 | International Friendly |
| 19 Jun 2004 | Mali v Zambia | D | 1-1 | FIFA World Cup |
| 18 Jun 2005 | Zambia v Mali | L | 2-1 | FIFA World Cup |
| 27 Jan 2016 | Zambia v Mali | D | 0-0 | African Nations Championship |
| 23 Sep 2022 | Mali v Zambia | W | 1-0 | International Friendly |
Patson Daka is Zambia’s standout forward and arguably the most high-profile player on either side. While no detailed statistics are available for the current campaign, Daka’s experience in the English Premier League and his goalscoring exploits at club and international level mark him as Zambia’s danger man. He is expected to lead the line in this tie, using his pace and movement to test Mali’s disciplined back line. If Zambia are to score, Daka’s ability to find space behind defences and finish clinically will be key. His record in international fixtures is impressive, and he remains Zambia’s focal point in attack.
Q: Who is the favourite to win the Mali vs. Zambia match?
A: Mali are clear favourites, with bookmakers pricing them at 4/7 to win the match.
Q: What are the best betting odds for this match?
A: The best odds for Mali to win are 4/7, while a correct score of 1-0 to Mali is available at 9/2. Other notable prices include 11/2 for a Zambia win and 5/2 for the draw.
Q: Where can I watch the Mali vs. Zambia match?
A: The game will be shown on Sky Sports in the UK.
This Africa Cup of Nations clash sees Mali enter as strong favourites, reflecting their disciplined defensive style and squad quality. Zambia, led by Patson Daka, will look to upset the odds, but face an organised and experienced opponent. With both teams yet to play in this tournament cycle, a low-scoring contest is expected, making the 1-0 correct score and ‘No’ in the Both Teams to Score market attractive options. Keep an eye on Patson Daka’s performance for any player prop opportunities.
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