Preview: Mali vs Zambia — Africa Cup of Nations, 22-12-2025 14:00 (GMT). I cannot access live databases after my training cutoff, so this preview uses general tactical trends, typical squad strengths, and form patterns to build a reasoned prediction. Before betting, verify up-to-date club affiliations, recent transfers and confirmed injuries from official federation releases.

Mali traditionally fields a physically robust midfield and quick wide attackers; Zambia often rely on transition speed and direct attacking patterns. If Mali’s key midfielders from top European clubs are available, they should control possession and limit Zambia’s counters. Conversely, if Zambia’s pacey forwards are fit and starting regularly for their clubs, they can punish a high Mali defensive line.

Form guide: evaluate each side’s last five matches in all competitions — look for clean sheets, goals scored, and opponent quality. Betting angle: European bookmakers often set Mali as slight favorites in AFCON group fixtures; typical continental handicaps might land around Mali -0.25 to -0.5. Total goals markets commonly open near 2.0–2.5; expect a tight, low-to-medium scoring game if both teams rotate cautiously.

Prediction: lean to a narrow Mali win or a draw (estimated score 1-0 or 1-1). Key factors that would change this: late injuries to anchoring midfielders, last-minute transfers, or an unexpected tactical shift. Always cross-check live team news and market odds before placing stakes.

H2H