Ahead of Mali’s quest in the upcoming African Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast, we review their betting odds and expectations. This Mali AFCON guide covers the National team’s fixtures, squad, and predictions.
Mali – AFCON Team Details
Mali’s preparations for the most prestigious tournament on the continent, AFCON, have been impressive. The Eagles came out as leaders of Group G of the AFCON Qualifications, claiming 12 points of a possible 18.
They sealed their spot in the main event with a dominant win against South Sudan (4:0), having recorded victories against Gambia and Congo. The heavy victory saw them move their goal-scoring tally for the qualifying round to 13, ranking second highest goal scorers.
The six-time AFCON semi-finalist will confidently go into the upcoming edition, knowing they have what it takes to lift the continental title for the first time.
They have been drawn in Group E with South Africa, Tunisia, and Namibia. While Tunisia is the clear favourite to top the group, Mali possesses an equally fair threat.
Coach Eric Chelle will depend on Tottenham Midfielder Yves Bissouma, defender captain Hamari Traore, and in-form striker Ibrahim Kone to soar the Eagles to glory.
Mali AFCON Betting Odds
As AFCON commences in January 2024, top sports betting sites in Kenya will provide various betting markets with competitive odds on the 52 games of the tournament.
Here are some of the Mali betting odds.
Top Mali AFCON 2024 Matches
Mali AFCON 2024 Squad
Coach Chelle and the Mali Football Federation are yet to release the Mali AFCON 23-man squad. We expect the squad list to be out a few weeks before the commencement of the main event.
However, the call-up squad for friendly games against Uganda and Saudi Arabia gives an insight into the Mali AFCON squad.
- Goalkeepers: I.Diawara, L. Diabete
- Defenders: M.Fofana, S.Niakete, H.Traore, M.Diara, M.Traore, A.Dante, F.Sacko, K.Kayoute
- Midfielders: M.Camara, D.Samassekou, I.Sissoko, B.Traore, M.Doumbia.
- Attackers: F.Diabete, L.Sinayoko, K.Doumbia, N.Dorgeles.
This list has some noticeable omissions due to injuries and suspensions. We expect players like Yves Bissouma, C.Doucoure, M.Haidara, Moussa Djenepo, and Abdoulaye Doucoure.
Mali AFCON attack is a serious concern as prolific striker Ibrahim Kone will miss the main event in Ivory Coast. The striker suffered an injury in Mali’s friendly match against Uganda and will be sidelined for months.
Mali AFCON 2024 Predictions
Inconsistency has rocked AFCON teams over the years, making it difficult to predict. However, through thorough research and analysis, players can increase their chances of making the right predictions.
Double Chance
The Eagles have had a poor run in recent times at the AFCON, having been knocked out at the round of 16 in the last two editions. However, their performance in the group stages has been impressive.
In AFCON 2019 and 2021, Mali claimed 7 points out of a possible 9, finishing group leaders on both occasions.
With the current depth in the squad and individual brilliance, it will not be far-fetched to follow the trend. With this analysis, it is safe to wager on Mali not losing a group game.
Corner Market
In AFCON 2019 in Egypt, Mali played four matches, including a round of 16 defeat to Ivory Coast. Each game had an average of 11 corners.
The trend continued in the last tournament at Cameroon, where the West Africa team had an average of eight per game.
This trend can be attributed to the quality of Mali’s attackers. It is safe to bet on the total number of corners per game.
Where Can I Watch Matches of Mali in Kenya?
Many top betting sites in Kenya provide live streaming services to ensure players do not miss a moment of Mali AFCON matches. 1xBet is a prominent name on the list, and it offers high-quality live-streaming features, helping you keep track of your bets.
To watch you must have an account created with the bookmaker, and deposit the minimum amount
History of the Mali Team in AFCON
Mali made their first appearance in the Africa Cup of Nations in 1972 and went on to finish as runners-up.
The Eagles are regular participants in the AFCON main event but have never lifted the continental title. Nonetheless, they have come close a few times, finishing third in 2012 and 2013 and fourth in 1994, 2002, and 2004.
Despite an impressive outing on their debut, the Mali national team did not make another appearance in the continental competition until 1994. Returning to AFCON after over two decades, Mali was knocked out by Egypt in the semi-final.
Mali hosted the 2002 African Cup of Nations, where they lost out to Cameroon 3:0 in the semi-final. They lost out on a third-place finish to their Regional rivals Nigeria 1:0.
Mali AFCON 2024 team will attempt to break a record in Ivory Coast.
Mali AFCON 2024 Teams FAQs
Seydou Keita is Mali’s record top-scorer with 25 goals in 102 caps.
Mali is in AFCON Group E, alongside Tunisia, South Africa, and Namibia.
With the absence of top striker Ibrahim Kone and records, Mali has a slim chance of winning.
The name of the Mali national team Coach is Eric Chelle.
