Be careful, danger for Mali. Defeated by Zambia in the very last moments during the first day (1-1), the Malians may play their qualification for the round of 16 of the 2025 African Cup of Nations against Morocco this Friday (9 p.m.). A second setback would put them in a bad position before meeting the Comoros at the end of the group stage. But serenity remains among the supporters, like Sekou (29 years old).
“I’m not worried, I’m rather impatient to follow this meeting,” he assures. I know very well that Morocco fears us too, because it is never easy to play against us. It will also be up to us to show our true level, to prove that this first match was a small mistake. »
After elimination in the qualifying phase for the 2026 World Cup, the seventh in a row in the competition, a new disillusionment in the African Cup of Nations would be considered a cataclysm. But Sekou doesn’t even want to think about it. “Of course, an early elimination would be a huge blow, especially after the disappointment of the World Cup. But I want to believe that the team will offer us something beautiful. What I expect from this CAN is that all Malians, whether they live in France, abroad or directly in the country, can be proudly represented by the selection. »
“We’re going to do something beautiful”
If Mali is not among the big favorites for final victory, its squad, one of the richest in Africa, gives rise to a wave of hope among its fans. “Mali has very good players and an extremely rich pool. There is a group that has been building for some time, with players who are gradually integrating and a coach who is starting to put in place his vision of the game. In my opinion, this team is better than that of the last CAN,” believes Sekou.
The educator within the Parisian club ACP 15, colleague of Samir, the Comorian supporter interviewed by Le Parisien for the CAN, is particularly delighted to see captain Yves Bissouma (Tottenham) return to the selection after several months of absence. “He was injured, and it was clearly felt in the game in the last few matches. We have seen everything he can bring to the field, but also what he gives off on a human level. He is an important leader for the group, and I really hope that he is fully recovered for the rest of the competition. »
The Malians, whose selection has not reached the podium of the African Cup of Nations since 2013, are now waiting to return to the summit of African football. “We must proudly represent our colors. It is essential for the whole country that we have a good run in this CAN. I think and I hope that we are going to do something beautiful,” concludes Sekou.
