Mali - Zambia ai prediction 22.12.2025 Africa Cup of Nations

Preview for Match Mali vs Zambia

The much-anticipated match between Mali and Zambia in the Africa Cup of Nations is set to take place on Monday, December 22, 2025, at the Stade Mohamed V. This encounter marks the opening matchday of the tournament, and both teams will be eager to secure a positive start. Mali, under the guidance of coach Tom Saintfiet, enters this fixture with a mixed bag of recent performances but remains confident following a 0-0 draw against Jordan in their last outing. Zambia, on the other hand, will aim to rebound after a disappointing 0-2 loss to the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Historically, Mali has had the upper hand in their recent encounters with Zambia. The last direct meeting saw Mali triumph with a narrow 1-0 victory. This historical edge could play a psychological role in the players' preparation and performance. As both teams gear up for this crucial match, it is imperative to analyze their recent forms, head-to-head records, and individual player performances to make informed predictions.

Mali's recent performance in the Africa Cup of Nations has also been a mix of resilience and challenges. They managed to reach the latter stages in the previous tournament, only to be eliminated by Côte d'Ivoire after a tightly contested match that ended 1-2 after extra time. With two wins and two draws in their last five Africa Cup of Nations matches, Mali is showing signs of stability, which could be pivotal as they head into this tournament.

In contrast, Zambia's recent trajectory has been concerning. They have not won in their last five matches across all competitions, managing only one win in their previous five outings, which raises questions about their form and morale. Their most recent Africa Cup of Nations performance was also disappointing, with a 0-1 loss to Morocco. This underwhelming run could pose significant challenges for the Zambian side as they attempt to find their footing in this highly competitive tournament.

Our Betting Tip for the Match Mali vs Zambia

In light of the recent performances of both teams, our betting prediction leans towards a victory for Mali. Given their stronger historical performance and current form, we recommend placing a bet on Mali to win (Tip 1). The odds for this outcome are appealing, with Betwinner offering odds of 1.63. Furthermore, considering Zambia's struggles to find the back of the net, we also predict that both teams will not score in this match (Tip NO), with odds of 1.65 available at 888sport.

Our tips

Double Chance

12

Mali have won or lost 3 of their last 4 matches.

Zambia have won or lost 6 of their last 6 matches.

Top odds at 1xBet

Total Goals

Under 2.5

There have been under 2.5 goals scored in 3 of Mali's last 4 matches.

There have been under 2.5 goals scored in 4 of Zambia's last 6 matches.

Top odds at 1xBet

Total Goals

Over 0.5

There have been over 0.5 goals scored in 3 of Mali's last 4 matches.

There have been over 0.5 goals scored in 6 of Zambia's last 6 matches.

Top odds at bet365

AI Prediction for the Match Mali vs Zambia

Our AI prediction suggests that Mali is likely to emerge victorious in this encounter. Based on statistical analysis of recent forms, it is reasonable to expect a final score of 2-0 in favour of Mali. The underlying data indicates that while Mali has managed to score consistently, Zambia has struggled significantly in front of goal. Therefore, the AI betting tip aligns with the overall assessment that Mali will control the match and secure a solid win.

Mali Performance Check

Mali, guided by coach Tom Saintfiet, is currently in a positive trajectory, having won three of their last five matches across all competitions. The team has demonstrated resilience and tactical discipline, which has contributed to their recent successes. Their history in the Africa Cup of Nations also showcases a commendable performance, with two wins, two draws, and only one loss in their last five tournaments. This consistency will be crucial as they strive to establish dominance in their opening match.

How is the Current Performance of Zambia

Zambia's recent form, however, paints a different picture. Under their coach, the team has struggled, recording only one win in their last five matches, while suffering four defeats. Their inability to secure victories, particularly in the Africa Cup of Nations, where they have not won in their last five appearances, raises concerns about their competitiveness. This lack of form could hinder their performance against a more stable and confident Mali side.

Head-to-Head Last Direct Meetings

In the last five meetings between Mali and Zambia, the head-to-head record reveals one victory for Mali, three draws, and one win for Zambia. This history underscores a competitive rivalry, though recent trends suggest Mali holds a psychological advantage heading into this match.

Performance Last 5 Matches

Mali's recent form indicates three wins, one draw, and one defeat, showcasing a generally strong performance. Conversely, Zambia has struggled significantly, securing only one victory while suffering four losses in their last five outings, suggesting a team in distress.

Performance

Mali

Last games

Mali performance of the last 2 home matches

Victories

100%

Over 2.5

100%

Zambia

Last games

Zambia performance of the last 8 away matches

Victories

12%

Over 2.5

62%

Last Match Results Mali and Zambia

In their last matches, Mali managed a 0-0 draw against Jordan, while Zambia faced a 0-2 defeat against the Democratic Republic of Congo. These results further highlight the contrasting trajectories of the two teams as they prepare for their opening match.

Best Odds and Our Betting Tip

For this upcoming match, the best odds available for Mali to win are at 1.63 with Betwinner, while the odds for both teams not to score stand at 1.65 with 888sport. Our experience with various bookmakers suggests that these odds offer excellent value, especially given the current forms of both teams. For those looking to place bets, we recommend exploring options among the best betting sites in our bookmaker comparison.

Conclusion on the Match

In summary, Mali enters this fixture as the clear favourite, given their superior form and historical performance against Zambia. The combination of Mali's tactical strength and Zambia's recent struggles suggests a likely victory for the Malian side. Therefore, a bet on Mali to win appears to be a sound decision, alongside the prediction that both teams will not score.

Here are the best betting tips for tomorrow, as we continue to analyze upcoming fixtures and provide insights into potential betting opportunities.