Match Summary
Mali and Zambia drew 1:1. The match was played in Africa Cup of Nations 2025. Goals were scored by L. Sinayoko 61′, P. Daka 90′. 2 yellow cards were shown. Mali had 53% possession while Zambia held 47%. Mali had 15 shots (5 on target) compared to 7 (2 on target) for Zambia. Mali made 3 substitutions, Zambia made 3. VAR was involved: Penalty confirmed (Dorgeles Nene 39′).
Match Events
Key match events between Mali and Zambia — 2 goals and 2 cards recorded during the match.
assist: M. Banda
Match Statistics
Mali had 53% possession against Zambia's 47%. Mali registered 15 shots (5 on target) while Zambia managed 7 (2 on target). Corner kicks: 6–5. Fouls committed: 15–13.
Lineups
Mali lined up in a — formation, while Zambia deployed a 4-2-3-1.
Squad Ratings
The overall squad rating for Mali is 6.96, compared to 6.69 for Zambia. This metric is derived from each player's average match rating across all league appearances this season — anything above 7.00 is considered strong, while below 6.50 signals inconsistency. Mali's highest-rated starter is L. Sinayoko (7.12), while Zambia's best-rated player is B. Sakala (6.83).
Attacking Output
The starting XI of Mali have contributed 3 goals and 0 assists this season, led by L. Sinayoko (3G). Zambia's starters account for 0 goals and 0 assists, spearheaded by —. Goals reflect clinical finishing and chance creation, while assists highlight the ability to unlock defences through through-balls, crosses, and set pieces.
Defensive Solidity
Mali deploy 4 defenders rated — on average, against Zambia's 3-man backline averaging 6.83. Higher defensive ratings suggest better positional awareness, fewer individual errors, and a greater likelihood of keeping clean sheets. The rating accounts for tackles won, interceptions, aerial duels, and blocks throughout the season.
Midfield Control
Mali field 5 midfielders averaging 6.92, versus Zambia's 6 rated 6.62. Midfield ratings reflect passing accuracy, interceptions, key passes, and overall control of possession — the team that dominates midfield typically dictates the tempo and territory of the match.
Forward Threat
Mali start 1 forward(s) averaging —, compared to 1 for Zambia averaging —. Forward ratings capture shot accuracy, movement off the ball, dribbling success, and involvement in build-up play — they indicate who carries the greater goal threat on the day.
Passing & Build-Up
Passing accuracy averages —% for Mali and 46% for Zambia. Higher passing accuracy generally indicates a possession-based style with patient build-up through the thirds, while lower figures may suggest a more direct, counter-attacking approach with long balls and quick transitions.
Discipline
Mali's starters have collected 3 yellow cards this season, compared to 1 for Zambia. Yellow cards reflect how aggressively a team presses and tackles — a high count may indicate a physical, high-pressing style but also risks suspensions and late free-kicks in dangerous areas.
Age & Experience
The average age of Mali's starting XI is 25.3 (youngest: K. Doumbia (22), oldest: D. Diarra (30)), while Zambia average 25.3 (youngest: M. Chaiwa (21), oldest: B. Sakala (29)). Younger squads typically offer pace, energy, and pressing intensity, while experienced lineups bring composure, game management, and the ability to handle high-pressure moments.
Squad Depth
Mali's starters average 5 league appearances each, versus 3 for Zambia. High appearance counts indicate an established, well-drilled unit that the manager trusts week in and week out. Lower figures may suggest rotation, injuries, or emerging players still earning their place in the team.
Substitutes
Substitutes
Recent Form
In their last 6 matches, Mali have recorded 0 wins, 5 draws and 1 defeats. Zambia show 0 wins, 2 draws and 4 losses from their last 6 outings.
Mali
Zambia
API data: 15 Mar 2026