Mali and Zambia are set to ignite their Africa Cup of Nations adventure with a high-stakes showdown at Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca on Monday, launching Group A into action.

Both teams arrive with big ambitions, as the Copper Bullets set their sights on capturing a second AFCON crown.

Mali dreams of lifting their first-ever AFCON trophy, knowing a strong opening against Zambia could spark their campaign in Morocco.

West African teams have battled on this stage before, but lasting glory has eluded them, with just a runner-up and two third-place finishes to show for their efforts.

Mali’s talent fuels their confidence, but the Africa Cup of Nations is famous for its unpredictable twists.

Their crushing 4–0 defeat to Zambia in Tunisia back in 1994 serves as a vivid reminder of how fortunes can shift.

Yet Mali has found Zambia a tough opponent, managing just one win, two defeats, and three draws in their last six encounters.

Zambia is set to return in 2025, but few across Africa are tipping them as favorites this time around.

After topping their qualifying group, Chipolopolo is eager to seize this opportunity, having missed out on the tournament since their 2012 triumph.

Opening against Mali rather than Morocco could play to their advantage, especially considering their favorable record against Monday’s opponents.

Avram Grant, the former Chelsea boss, takes the helm for the former champions, with fans hoping his experience will tip the scales in Morocco.