Mali and Tunisia will clash in a highly anticipated Round of 16 encounter at Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca on Saturday, as both sides aim to advance deeper into the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. The Eagles seek another quarter-final berth, while the Carthage Eagles look to redeem themselves after an early exit in the 2023 edition in Ivory Coast.
Match Preview
Mali’s Group Stage Journey
Mali advanced to the knockout stage after finishing second in Group A, remaining unbeaten across three matches. The Eagles opened with a 1–1 draw against Zambia, followed by another 1–1 stalemate with hosts Morocco, before securing a goalless draw with Comoros to confirm qualification.
Across the group stage, Mali scored two goals and conceded two, showcasing a disciplined defensive approach that proved decisive, particularly in the final match against Comoros. Their defensive organisation has been a hallmark of recent AFCON campaigns, and they are historically difficult to beat, with two wins and four draws in their last six competitive matches, including a World Cup qualifier victory over Madagascar.
Mali have consistently reached the knockout rounds in AFCON history, with their best finish remaining runners-up in 1972.
Tunisia’s Path to the Knockouts
Tunisia finished second in Group C behind Nigeria. The Carthage Eagles opened with a 3–1 win over Uganda, suffered a 3–2 defeat to Nigeria, and drew 1–1 with Tanzania in their final group game. Scoring six goals and conceding five, Tunisia’s attacking approach has been effective but occasionally exposed their defensive vulnerabilities.
In their last six competitive matches, Tunisia have recorded three wins, two draws, and one defeat, scoring 13 goals and conceding eight. Their AFCON pedigree—including winning the tournament in 2004 on home soil—gives them valuable experience in navigating the pressures of knockout football.
Head-to-Head History
Mali and Tunisia have met 13 times since 1994, with Tunisia winning six matches, Mali four, and three ending in draws. Recent encounters have been tight, including draws in the last two meetings, indicating another closely fought clash is likely.
Team News
Mali: Head coach Tom Saintfiet will be without key midfielder Amadou Haidara, who was sent off in the final group-stage match against Comoros. Although an appeal has been lodged citing a refereeing error, Haidara’s absence is a significant blow for Mali’s midfield. On a positive note, Sikou Niakate has resumed individual training, and Hamari Traore continues rehabilitation and may be available later in the tournament.
Tunisia: Coach Sami Trabelsi has a near full-strength squad, with minor concerns over Mohamed Ali Ben Romdhane, who sustained a knee contusion against Nigeria. Elias Achouri is expected to return to fitness after a minor knock against Tanzania.
Probable Lineups:
Mali: Diarra; W. Coulibaly, Diaby, O. Camara, Gassama; Dieng, Doumbia, L. Coulibaly, Sangare, Bissouma; Sinayoko
Tunisia: Dahmen; Abdi, Talbi, Bronn, Valery; Skhiri, Gharbi, Mejbri; Achouri, Tounekti, Mastouri
Prediction
Expect a tactical and closely contested affair between two evenly matched sides. Mali’s disciplined defensive structure may neutralize Tunisia’s attacking threats. After a tight 1–1 draw in regulation time, we foresee Mali progressing to the quarter-finals through a penalty shootout.
Score Prediction: Mali 1-1 Tunisia (Mali win AET)
