Mali head coach Tom Saintfiet has admitted that Ghana are favourites going into Monday’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier, but insists that the race for qualification in Group I is far from decided.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference ahead of the clash at the Accra Sports Stadium, the Belgian tactician acknowledged Ghana’s pedigree and their strong position at the top of the group.
“It will be difficult. At the moment, Ghana is the number one in the group, they’ve gone to the World Cup five times so they are the favorites,” Saintfiet said.
He was, however, quick to stress that other teams in the group still have a chance to qualify. “But it can be Mali, Madagascar or Comoros. So it’s a very competitive group.”
The highly anticipated fixture kicks off at 19:00 GMT, with Ghana currently sitting at the summit with 16 points, one point ahead of Comoros, three clear of Madagascar, and four ahead of Mali, who are in fourth place after seven matches.
Both teams know a win could be decisive in shaping their World Cup qualification hopes, making the encounter one of the most important games in Group I.
