Mali v Zambia: Confirmed team news as Bissouma is ruled out

Mali and Zambia open their Africa Cup of Nations campaigns this afternoon in Casablanca.

Zambia won the trophy in 2012 but have endured some barren years since, failing to qualify for three successive editions of the tournament while not really challenging when they have made the finals.

They go into this game as outsiders although they have a good head-to-head record against Mali, avoiding defeat in five of their last six meetings.

Mali boss Tom Saintfiet knows Group A, which also features hosts Morocco and Comoros, is loaded with talent.

He told the tournament’s official website: “Our objective is to qualify for the knockout phase while fully respecting all our opponents. This could be described as a “group of death,” as all four teams are capable of progressing.

“Comoros are a very good side; they defeated Tunisia, Gambia, and Madagascar during qualification. Zambia is a major force in African football, and Morocco are the clear favorites. All four teams have a chance, but we are here to go far. There is no question of believing qualification is impossible. 

“We must stay focused and take the competition one match at a time. No game will be easy, but I have complete faith in my team. We will reach the knockout stage, 100 percent.”

Mali Team News

Mali have opted not to risk Tottenham midfielder Yves Bissouma, who has been struggling with injury for several weeks.

Mali: Diarra; Dante, Diaby, Fofana; Sinayoko, Dorgeles, Sangare, Dieng, Coulibaly; Toure, Doumbia

Zambia Team News

Patson Daka of Leicester City leads the line for Zambia.

Zambia: Mwanza; Banda, Sakala, Musonda, Chanda; Changa Chaiwa, Banda, Kangwa, Tembo; Sakala, Daka

How to watch Mali v Zambia: TV channel, live online stream

Kick-off on Monday is at 14:00 GMT (09:00 ET / 06:00 PT). In the UK, live AFCON 2025 coverage is on Channel 4. In the USA, beIN Sports is the tournament broadcaster.

Online live streaming is available on a vast range of devices through Channel 4’s website and app and the beIN Sports app.

Mali v Zambia stats

• Mali are seeking their first-ever Africa Cup of Nations title
• Zambia won their only AFCON title in 2012
• Mali have won just one of their last six meetings with Zambia
• Zambia finished top of their AFCON 2025 qualifying group
• Mali have reached the AFCON final once in their history
• This is the first AFCON meeting between the sides since 1994