Mali vs Zambia Prediction & Betting Tips (22 December)

Mali has a history of quality at the heart of this African Cup of Nations, having reached the last four 6 times in its history. Exited from the tournament in the groups in 2015 and 2017, Mali reached the round of 16 stage during the last two editions and will, of course, try to take a step forward by reaching the quarter-finals. This Malian selection, however, experienced a real disappointment during the World Cup qualifiers, finishing 3rd with 18 points, 1 point behind Madagascar and quite far from Ghana (25 points). Winner of the CAN in 2012, Zambia built on years of good performances, notably at the end of the 90s without ever managing to win it. From now on, we must find consistency for the Zambians who have not passed the group stages since this coronation in 2012.

Worse still, during the 2017, 2019 and 2021 editions, Zambia did not even manage to qualify to participate in the competition. Like Mali, the Chipolopolo did not obtain their ticket for the World Cup, finishing only fourth in their group, far behind Niger and Morocco. On Tuesday, the Zambians were defeated in a preparation friendly played in Spain against the DRC 2-0. 

Among the Eagles of Mali, no less than 28 players are expected to come and proudly wear the selection crest. Among them, we should find the Brestois Kamory Doumbia (4 goals, 1 assist in L1 this season), exemplary and reliable during the CDM qualifiers with a total of 8 goals and the Auxérrois Lassine Sinayoko (4 goals, 2 assists in L1 this season). Also included are midfielders Dorgeles Nene (Fenerbahce, 3 goals during CDM qualifying) and Lassana Coulibaly (Lecce). The captain, Yves Bissouma, although absent from the meetings with Tottenham, should also be called up. Defender Nathan Gassama (Baltika, 1st Russian division) also received a phone call from the coach. Unveiling a pre-list of 55 players, Zambian coach Moses Sichone finally called up 28 players to play in this competition.

Many players play in the country but we should still note the exceptions who have decided to play outside the borders. We think of Leganes defender (Spanish D2) David Hamasenya and Benson Sakala (Bohemians 1905, Czech Republic). In the middle, Chaiwa (Hibernians), Liteta (Cagliari), Kangwa (Maccabi Beer Sheva) and Sakala (Al Fayha, 2 goals during the World Cup qualifiers) are called up. Offensively, we find Patson Daka (Leicester), author of 3 goals during World Cup qualifying.