…Saintfiet demands focus ahead of AFCON 2025 opener
Mali head coach Tom Saintfiet has stressed the importance of focus and respect ahead of his side’s opening Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 match against Zambia, describing their opponents as “one of the best teams in Africa”. boldsportsng.com reports
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Saintfiet made clear that results, rather than reputation, would define Mali’s campaign. “What matters to us are the three points,” he said. “We must respect all our opponents and stay focused throughout the match.”
The Belgian also embraced the expectations surrounding his side, pointing to Mali’s progress under his leadership. “We have a good team, and I have no problem with the pressure. Since my arrival, we have achieved our best statistical performance with Mali,” he added.
Midfielder Aliou Dieng echoed his coach’s cautious confidence, insisting that actions on the pitch would speak louder than words. “God willing, we will have a good start,” he said. “The match against Zambia will not be easy. We won’t talk much during this tournament; we will show it on the pitch.”
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Zambia coach Musa Sichone, meanwhile, expressed optimism about his squad’s readiness, highlighting his unique perspective as a former AFCON player. “All players are well-prepared, fit, and ready to play,” he said. “For me, participating in this tournament is about achieving results, not just playing.”
Captain Fashion Sakala underlined Zambia’s ambition, adding that experience could be key. “We have prepared well tactically and mentally. I am very excited about this tournament, and we aim to go far,” he said.
With both camps projecting confidence and caution in equal measure, today’s opener promises to be a revealing early test of their AFCON 2025 ambitions.
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