Mali coach Mohamed Magassouba unveiled his squad this Friday for the upcoming fixtures ahead of the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), and, as expected, Massadio Haidara has been included. With the Eagles having already secured qualification for the tournament in Egypt, these upcoming matches are designed as preparation and experimentation, allowing the coach to fine-tune his team ahead of the main event.
The first match is set against South Sudan on March 23, giving Mali an opportunity to maintain momentum and evaluate players in a competitive setting. Three days later, on March 26, the Eagles will face a tougher test in a friendly against Senegal in Thiès, allowing the squad to gauge its readiness against one of Africa’s strongest sides.
The squad, which balances experience with emerging talent, reflects Magassouba’s strategic approach to squad building. The goalkeeping department includes Djigui Diarra (Stade Malien), Mamadou Samassa (Troyes, France), and Adama Keïta (Djoliba), providing a combination of domestic familiarity and European experience.
In defense, the team boasts several players with European pedigree, including Hamari Traoré (Rennes, France), Falaye Sacko (Vitoria Guimarães, Portugal), Massadio Haidara (Lens, France), Youssouf Koné (Lille, France), Mamadou Fofana (FC Metz, France), Boubacar Kiki Kouyaté (Troyes, France), and Bakaye Dibassy (Amiens, France). This depth gives Magassouba options across the backline and the versatility to adjust tactics according to the opponent.
The midfield is anchored by talented players such as Diadié Samassékou (RB Salzburg, Austria), Boubacar Diarra (ENPPI, Egypt), Cheick Doucouré (Lens, D2 France), Lassana Coulibaly (Glasgow Rangers, Scotland), Adama Traoré (Cercle Bruges, Belgium), and Idrissa Traoré (Shabab Al Jabal, Libya). These players provide a mix of physicality, creativity, and European experience, giving the Eagles control in both defensive and offensive transitions.
The attacking unit is particularly impressive, featuring a blend of proven goal scorers and emerging talents. Forwards include Moussa Djénépo (Standard Liège), Ibrahim Tandia (SEPSI, Romania), Moussa Doumbia (Stade de Reims, France), Abdoulaye Diaby (Sporting CP, Portugal), Moussa Maréga (FC Porto, Portugal), Kalifa Coulibaly (Nantes, France), Hadi Sacko (Ankaragucu, Turkey), Adama Niane (Charleroi, Belgium), and Adama Traoré (Orléans, D2 France). With this attacking depth, Mali is equipped to pose multiple threats in front of goal and adapt to different defensive challenges.
Magassouba’s squad reflects a careful balance between continuity and opportunity. While some players have been mainstays in previous campaigns, others are being given the chance to prove themselves in preparation for the AFCON. The upcoming matches against South Sudan and Senegal will provide valuable insights into the team’s chemistry, tactical cohesion, and readiness to compete against Africa’s top teams.
With qualification already secured, the Eagles can focus on fine-tuning their squad, building confidence, and ensuring that every player is prepared for the intensity of the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations. Fans can expect a well-organized team capable of combining European experience with homegrown talent, ready to challenge for continental glory in Egypt.
