AFCON 2025: Tom Saintfiet sets the tone as Mali demand victory in opening test against Zambia

Mali will begin their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a clear objective when they face Zambia on Monday, December 22, as head coach Tom Saintfiet insists that nothing less than victory will satisfy his side in their opening Group A fixture.

Addressing the media on Sunday, the Mali coach spoke candidly about the challenge ahead and the importance of making a strong start in a tightly contested group.

Zambia, former champions of the continent, represent a significant hurdle, but Saintfiet was emphatic that his team cannot afford hesitation or a cautious mindset as the tournament gets under way.

“We have to win this match,” Saintfiet said, setting an uncompromising tone ahead of the encounter.

The Belgian coach, who previously led Gambia, stressed that early momentum is essential in a competition as demanding as the Africa Cup of Nations, particularly for a side with ambitions of progressing deep into the tournament.

Saintfiet acknowledged the quality and experience within the Zambian squad, describing the Chipolopolo as disciplined and well drilled, with players capable of influencing the outcome at the highest level.

However, he made it clear that respect for the opponent would not translate into a defensive or passive approach from his own team.

“We’re under pressure. We’re playing against Zambia, a well-organized team with some big names. We’ll prepare for tomorrow’s match and do everything we can to take the three points against Zambia,” Saintfiet said.

The message was unmistakable, Mali intend to impose themselves rather than react to events.

Group A has already attracted attention because it includes hosts Morocco, widely regarded as one of the tournament favourites.

Yet Saintfiet was keen to downplay any talk of future fixtures, insisting that Mali’s focus must remain firmly on the immediate task.

In his view, overlooking Zambia in anticipation of the showdown with the hosts would be a serious mistake.

“Everyone’s talking about the match against Morocco, but the most difficult one is tomorrow’s match, but we’re going to remain cautious. We have to win this match. It’s not easy because Zambia has good players, a good team,” Saintfiet explained.

Mali’s pathway through the group underlines the importance of a positive start.

After the opening match against Zambia, the Eagles will face Morocco before concluding the group stage against Comoros.

With limited room for error, Saintfiet believes that setting the tone early is vital, both in terms of points and confidence.

His comments also reflect a broader ambition within the Malian camp.

While acknowledging the pressures that come with international tournaments, the coach suggested that his players are prepared to shoulder responsibility rather than shy away from expectations.

The emphasis, he said, is on competitive mentality and belief, qualities he expects to see from the first whistle.

As preparations conclude, attention will turn to how Mali translate these bold words into performance on the pitch.

Zambia’s pedigree ensures a demanding opening contest, but Saintfiet’s insistence on victory leaves no ambiguity about Mali’s intentions.

With Group A set to unfold under the spotlight of a major continental tournament, Mali’s opening encounter could prove decisive.

For Tom Saintfiet and his players, the message is simple and uncompromising: start strong, or risk falling behind before the campaign has truly begun.