Mali’s national football team, the Eagles, who reached the quarter-finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, find themselves struggling in the qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup. With only five points from four matches, they are currently trailing behind Ghana by four points. Their latest setback, a goalless draw against Madagascar, has intensified the pressure to secure their first-ever World Cup qualification.
In the aftermath of the match, Mali’s captain Hamari Traoré expressed his frustration over the team’s disorganized preparation, which was marred by multiple flight cancellations that disrupted their schedule.
“Another new chaotic situation for our Malian selection. Our players had to undergo a real journey to arrive in Johannesburg just a few hours before a crucial match.
We have strong ambitions for the World Cup, but these conditions do not put us players, as well as the staff, in the best position to play such crucial matches for our nation,” Traoré, who plays for Real Sociedad, lamented.
He continued, “Our leaders must take their responsibilities, listen to us and understand the crucial issue of preparing for these matches, which are so important for our people. We are football players, but above all we are humans.”
Traoré’s comments highlight the growing discontent within the squad regarding the logistical challenges they faced.
The delayed arrival in Johannesburg undoubtedly hampered their performance, with players unable to rest adequately before the critical fixture.
The draw against Madagascar leaves Mali with an uphill task in the remaining qualifiers.
They need to secure victories in their upcoming matches to keep their World Cup dreams alive.
Traoré’s call for better management and preparation underscores the importance of off-field logistics in achieving on-field success.
Mali’s football federation now faces the challenge of addressing these issues promptly to ensure that the team can focus on their performance.
The Eagles’ hopes of making it to the 2026 World Cup hinge not just on their talent and effort but also on the support and organization provided by their federation.
As the qualifiers progress, the spotlight will remain on how Mali’s football authorities respond to Traoré’s criticism and whether they can provide the team with the necessary support to reach their first World Cup.
The players, the staff, and the fans are all eagerly waiting for improvements that could turn their World Cup aspirations into reality.
