AFCON: Mali coach Tom Saintfiet opens up on tough group challenge

Head coach of Mali’s men’s senior team, Tom Saintfiet, has opened up on the challenges that await his charges in Group A of the TotalEnergie 2025 Africa Cup of Nations [AFCON] in Morocco.

The Eagles have touched down in Morocco ahead of the continental football tournament, where they are paired against hosts Morocco, Zambia and Comoros in Group A.

The Belgian tactician first addressed the challenges that affected the team’s preparations for AFCON before expressing confidence in the team’s chances at the tournament.

“Unfortunately, our preparation has been affected by recent changes. We were unable to organise a full training camp or play friendly matches, which means our preparation has not been ideal. That is regrettable.

“However, I have complete confidence in my team. We have been working together for fifteen months and have achieved good results. I know my players very well and have absolute trust in them and my staff. We will be ready for this competition,” Tom Saintfiet told CAF Online.

Mali have over the years produced an array of stars who ply their trade in Europe and beyond, but they are yet to lift the Africa Cup of Nations trophy.

TOM SAINTFIET DEFIANT DESPITE POOR AFCON PREP

Tom Saintfiet remains confident that Mali will make the necessary effort to achieve its objective of reaching the Knockout phase of the tournament.

“Our objective is to qualify for the knockout phase while fully respecting all our opponents. This could be described as a “group of death,” as all four teams are capable of progressing.

“Comoros are a very good side; they defeated Tunisia, Gambia, and Madagascar during qualification. Zambia is a major force in African football, and Morocco is the clear favourite. All four teams have a chance, but we are here to go far. There is no question of believing qualification is impossible.

“We must stay focused and take the competition one match at a time. No game will be easy, but I have complete faith in my team. We will reach the knockout stage, 100 per cent.

The former Gambia head coach has admitted that the host nation, Morocco, remains the AFCON’s favourite due to their recent performances at major tournaments.

“All 24 teams dream of winning the trophy. There are many high-quality teams, although perhaps only a dozen have a realistic chance. Mali is among the teams capable of going far if everything goes well.

“The main favourite remains Morocco. They are playing at home, in ideal conditions, with strong fan support. After finishing fourth at the World Cup in Qatar, Moroccan football has made significant progress.”

The 2025 AFCON is set between December 21 and January 18, with 24 nations billed to battle for honours. Mali will open their campaign on Monday, December 2,2 against Zambia before subsequent clashes against Morocco and Morocco within eight days.