AFCON 2023: Mali vs South Africa: Predicted lineup, injury news, head-to-head, telecast

Expectations are elevated for Les Aigles as South Africa make their comeback

A formidable Mali squad is poised to make a significant impact at the beginning of their Africa Cup of Nations journey as they face South Africa. Boasting a plethora of top talents competing in Europe’s premier leagues, Les Aigles possess the capability to advance to the quarterfinals of AFCON, a feat they haven’t achieved in a decade.

On the other hand, South Africa is making a return to the tournament after failing to qualify for two out of the last three editions. The challenge for them lies in Group E, where they will contend with seasoned competitors Tunisia and a wildcard Namibia team. Negotiating their way through this group promises to be a tough task as they seek to progress in the tournament.

Kick-Off:

Wednesday; 17 January 2024, 08:00 PM GMT (01:30 AM IST)

Location: Amadou Gon Coulibaly Stadium

Form

Mali (all competitions): W-W-W-D-W

South Africa (all competitions): D-D-W-L-D

Players to watch

Kamory Doumbia (Mali)

Kamory Doumbia is known for his versatile skills as a midfielder. He is recognized for his ability to contribute defensively with strong tackling and interceptions. Doumbia is also known for his passing ability and vision, contributing to the team’s build-up play. He has scored 5 goals in 8 appearances for Mali.

Ronwen Williams (South Africa)

Williams is known for his agility, shot-stopping abilities, and command of the penalty area. He has spent the majority of his career with SuperSport United, a club in the South African Premier Division. He has been a key figure for both his recent club Mamelodi Sundowns and the South African national team, earning recognition for his consistent performances

Match Facts

• Mali have been impressive, winning four of their last five internationals, with a notable 6-2 victory over Guinea-Bissau as part of their AFCON preparations.
• South Africa secured a victory against Mali in their recent encounter, with two goals netted in the first half during a 2019 friendly held in Port Elizabeth.
• Bafana Bafana’s current form is concerning, as they were held to a goalless draw by Lesotho in a recent warm-up match and have won only one of their last five games.

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Injury and Team News

Tottenham’s midfielder Yves Bissouma is expected to play a crucial role for Mali in their set-up against Ivory Coast, while Kamory Doumbia aims to make a breakthrough in the tournament after scoring five goals in just nine caps for his country. Unfortunately, injuries have affected Mali’s squad, with Crystal Palace’s Cheick Doucoure, Almeria striker Ibrahima Kone, and Moussa Djenepo unavailable.

Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos is optimistic about having captain Ronwen Williams fit to guard the goal. However, doubts surround the availability of Mothobi Mvala (groin). The majority of the South African team comprises domestic-based players, and notably, Burnley striker Lyle Foster has opted not to participate in AFCON due to mental health reasons.

Head-to-Head

Matches: 3

Mali: 2

South Africa: 1

Draws: 0

Predicted lineup for Mali vs South Africa

Mali predicted lineup

Diawara; Dante, Fofana, Sacko, Traore; Haidara, Bissouma, Coulibaly; Traore, Sissoko, Doumbia

South Africa predicted lineup

Williams; Modiba, Xulu, Sibisi, Mudau; Sithole, Mokoena; Lepasa, Zwane, Tau; Mayambela

Match prediction for Mali vs South Africa

Scoring goals poses a significant challenge for the South African team, and they could face a formidable obstacle in a skilled Mali squad, which possesses considerable offensive firepower. The goal-scoring struggle has been a notable concern for South Africa, and matching up against the attacking prowess of Mali may prove to be a formidable test.

Prediction: Mali 1-0 South Africa

Telecast for Mali vs South Africa

India – FanCode

UK – Sky Sports

US – beIN Sports

Nigeria – NTA

AFCON 2023 Worldwide Broadcast Details: Click here

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