Mali and Mauritania make their debut in the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations tonight in Group E, meeting for the first time in the competition.
For Mali, coach Mohamed Magassouba has opted to start with key players such as midfielder Amadou Haidara Samassekou of Red Bull Salzburg and striker Moussa Marega of FC Porto. Both are expected to lead the team’s efforts in attack and control the midfield.
Mauritania, under coach Corentin Martins, will rely on forward Adama Ba to spearhead their offense and create scoring opportunities against the Eagles. The team aims to make a strong impression in their AFCON debut.
Starting Lineups:
Mali: Diarra – H. Traoré, Wagué, Fofana, Y. Koné – A. Traoré, Samassekou, Coulibaly – Diaby, Marega, Djenepo
Mauritania: Diallo – Demba, B. Ndiaye, Abdoul Ba, Abeid – El Id, Dellahi, Coulibaly, Kassa Camara – Adama Ba, Ismael Diakité
Both teams are expected to contest a competitive opener, with Mali aiming to assert their experience and attacking quality, while Mauritania will look to capitalize on opportunities and make a strong debut in the tournament.
