In the lead-up to the much-anticipated clash between Mali and South Africa in the opening match of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast, Mali’s head coach, Eric Schill, expressed his belief that the world tends to mock Malian football.
Schill, however, remains resolute in his call for respect for the team’s identity.
Addressing reporters, Schill emphasized, “The world is laughing at Malian football, and that’s why I’ve asked my team to stop entertaining ridicule and instead showcase our true identity.”
He concluded, “No matter the outcome of the upcoming matches, when any team faces Mali, they should respect us, and we must earn that respect.”
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has appointed an Egyptian refereeing team for the Mali vs. South Africa match.
Mohammed Adel will officiate the game, assisted by Mahmoud Abu Elregal and Ahmed Hossam Taha, with Amin Omar serving as the fourth official.
Amin Omar had previously officiated the tournament’s opening match between Ivory Coast and Guinea-Bissau.
Despite not featuring in the preliminary list of referees announced by the Egyptian Football Association, Mohammed Adel’s name was included in the final list for AFCON 2023.
Additionally, Mahmoud Elbanna, initially listed as a field referee, transitioned to a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) role in the final referee lineup.
Egypt boasts seven referees at AFCON 2023, including Amin Omar, Mahmoud Elbanna, Mahmoud Abu Elregal, Ahmed Hossam Taha, and Mahmoud Ashour.
As Mali enters this prestigious tournament, Coach Eric Schill’s call for respect serves as a testament to the team’s determination to challenge global perceptions and establish itself as a force to be reckoned with on the African football stage.
