It has been at times a chaotic last few years for Mali. A relatively successful 2023 Africa Cup of Nations campaign under Éric Chelle saw Les Aigles reach the quarter-finals. But just a few months later at the start of 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifying, logistical issues delayed Mali from reaching South Africa to play their match against Madagascar, resulting in poor travel and preparation conditions for the players. Following the match, players from the national team, including captain Hamari Traoré, published a letter criticizing the professionalism of the Malian Football Federation. Traoré was subsequently suspended, and shortly after head coach Éric Chelle was sacked, and found out through a social media post.
Things have turned around slightly for Mali following the appointment of Tom Saintfiet in August of 2024. Saintfiet brings a wealth of experience to Mali’s touchline due to his extensive work in African football. Though Mali failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, they did had an impressive Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign, going unbeaten and topping their group. Mali only allowed 1 goal in their 6 qualifying matches, making them the joint best defense in Africa along with Senegal. Saintfiet has also worked to mend bridges and recalled Hamari Traoré from his suspension for Mali’s recent November friendly vs. Jordan, ensuring that the experienced defender will be a part of the Mali squad at the tournament. However, Saintfiet is likely to be without star midfielder Yves Bissouma as he recovers from an ankle injury suffered in October.
Mali have plenty of quality and the expectation at home is they should at least match their quarter-final appearance from the last Africa Cup of Nations. Mali have shown that they can be a strong defensive unit, the question will be if they can get the goals necessary to make a deep run.
Potential Starting XI
Coach
Tom Saintfiet
Tom Saintfiet is no stranger to the African national team game. Mali is the 7th African National team the Belgian has taken charge of in his managerial career.
Players to Watch
Dorgeles Nene
Age: 22
Position: RW/LW
Caps/Goals: 28/9
Club: Fenerbahçe SK (Turkiye)
One of the most exciting talents in Malian football. The Fenerbahçe winger topped off an impressive AFCON qualifying campaign for Mali by scoring a hattrick against Eswatini.
Aliou Dieng
Age: 28
Position: CDM/CM
Caps/Goals: 49/11
Club: Al Ahly SC (Egypt)
The central midfielder is an ever present in the Mali side, starting their last 15 matches. Dieng has also taken over as captain of Les Aigles following Hamari Traore’s suspension.
Mali Schedule
December 22, 2025 vs. Zambia – Casablanca
December 26, 2025 vs. Morocco – Rabat
December 29, 2025 vs. Comoros – Casablanca
Country Information
Did you know…
The Prime Meridian, the line that separates the Eastern and Western hemisphere, passes through Mali in the city of Gao.
