Mali will welcome Madagascar to the Stade du 26-Mars in Bamako on Sunday at 20:00 GMT for the final matchday of the 2026 World Cup African qualifiers — a contest carrying vastly different stakes for the two sides.
While Mali approach the fixture with little pressure after being eliminated from contention, Madagascar’s Barea face a must-win situation if they are to keep their World Cup dream alive.
Tom Saintfiet’s Eagles currently sit third in Group I with 15 points and will use this encounter to finish their qualifying campaign on a high.
The Malian side, who recently defeated Chad 2-0, are eager to reward their supporters with a strong home performance and build confidence ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Despite their exit from the qualification race, Mali’s recent form has been steady — three victories, one draw, and a single defeat in their last five outings.
For Madagascar, however, the stakes could not be higher.
Second in the group with 19 points, Corentin Martins’ men must secure all three points in Bamako to stand any chance of advancing to the intercontinental play-offs.
The Barea have enjoyed a fine run of results, winning four of their last five matches and displaying impressive consistency both home and away.
When the two sides met in the first leg at Johannesburg’s FNB Stadium on 11 June 2024, they played out a goalless draw in a tense affair.
This time, Madagascar will look to break through Mali’s defensive organisation in what promises to be a heated contest under the lights of Bamako.
The hosts, known for their physical dominance and intensity at home, are unlikely to make things easy for their visitors.
Fans across Africa and beyond will be able to follow the action live on multiple networks.
The match will be broadcast on ORTM in Mali, TVM in Madagascar, and L’Équipe Live Foot for international viewers.
Official live streaming will also be available globally via FIFA+ on both web and mobile platforms.
With contrasting ambitions — pride for Mali and survival for Madagascar — this final Group I clash encapsulates the drama and unpredictability of African World Cup qualifying.
Ninety minutes in Bamako will determine whether Madagascar’s remarkable campaign continues or ends just short of history.
