Mali will host Guinea-Bissau this Friday in a crucial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying match. Both teams are vying for vital points in Group I, with Mali sitting in second place and Guinea-Bissau in third.
Match Preview
Mali: The hosts come into the match with four points from two games, tied with leaders Mozambique but trailing on head-to-head away goals. After starting with a draw against Mozambique, Mali secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Eswatini, thanks to an early goal from Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Yves Bissouma, who has scored twice in the qualifiers. Under new manager Tom Saintfiet, Mali has shown stability, going unbeaten in their last four AFCON qualifying matches, with their last defeat dating back to March 2023. They boast an impressive home record in AFCON qualifiers, remaining unbeaten at home since 2014, with 14 consecutive matches without a loss.
Mali has also enjoyed a dominant history against Guinea-Bissau, winning six of their seven encounters, including a commanding 6-2 victory in a recent friendly. With their strong home advantage and favorable head-to-head results, Mali will be eager to secure a win that could enhance their chances of reaching their 14th AFCON appearance.
Guinea-Bissau: Currently sitting in third place with three points from two matches, Guinea-Bissau started their campaign with a win over Eswatini but suffered a narrow defeat to Mozambique, ending a four-game unbeaten streak across all competitions. Despite this setback, they remain in contention for qualification and will be keen to secure a positive result against Mali to keep pace with the leaders in Group I.
The Djurtus have demonstrated their capability in recent AFCON qualifiers, winning seven of their last ten matches, a run that will be essential as they face a formidable Mali side. A win or even a draw could significantly boost their chances of securing a spot in the upcoming AFCON tournament.
Team News
Mali: Yves Bissouma will be pivotal for Mali, aiming to maintain his scoring form. Ibrahim Cisse of Schalke has received his first call-up to the national team and could make an impact.
Guinea-Bissau: Carlos Mane will be a key figure for the visitors, needing to provide creativity and support for the attack. Goalkeeper Manuel Balde must be in top form to counter Mali’s offensive threats.
Predicted Lineups
Mali (4-3-3):
- Diarra; Diakite, Diaby, Fofana, Doucoure; Dieng, Camara, Bissouma; Traore, Doumbia, Djenepo
Guinea-Bissau (4-2-3-1):
- Manuel Balde; Encada, Sangante, Sambinha, Nanu; S Mane, Mama Balde, Dalcio, Semedo, C Mane; Turbo
Prediction
With Mali’s strong home record and impressive history against Guinea-Bissau, they enter this match as clear favorites. While the home side is expected to dominate possession and create chances, Guinea-Bissau has the potential to exploit any defensive lapses. However, Mali is likely to secure a victory.
Predicted Score: Mali 2-1 Guinea-Bissau.
