Mali and Cape Verde weigh up settled line-ups ahead of Women’s AFCON 2026 encounter

The coaches of Mali and Cape Verde are expected to retain much of their established core as both sides seek a vital victory in their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations meeting.

Mali are likely to line up in a 4-3-3 formation, with Karentao selected in goal. The anticipated back four is made up of F. Dembele, Konte, Sogore and Sissoko.

S. Traore, Niakate and F. Diarra are expected to form the midfield three, while Diabate, A. Diarra and A. Traore are the probable attacking options.

The projected XI gives Mali a clear structure across the pitch, with four defenders protected by a three-player midfield and a front three prepared to lead the side’s challenge. The selection indicates that the coaching staff are likely to place faith in a familiar group for a match regarded as crucial to their hopes.

Mali probable line-up

Formation: 4-3-3

Karentao; F. Dembele, Konte, Sogore, Sissoko; S. Traore, Niakate, F. Diarra; Diabate, A. Diarra, A. Traore.

Cape Verde are also expected to use a 4-4-2 system. Jacinta is set to start in goal, with Pereira, Fortes, Santos and Lopes forming the likely defensive line.

The expected midfield includes Martins, Gomes, Melo and Moreira. Vieira and Mendes are projected to operate as the two forwards.

That arrangement would give Cape Verde a conventional four-player midfield behind a front pairing, providing a different shape from Mali’s expected 4-3-3. The two systems will create a series of important individual contests across the pitch when the sides meet.

Cape Verde probable line-up

Formation: 4-4-2

Jacinta; Pereira, Fortes, Santos, Lopes; Martins, Gomes, Melo, Moreira; Vieira, Mendes.

Both managers are therefore expected to make use of many of their regular players rather than introduce wholesale changes. With victory described as vital for each team, the probable selections point to an emphasis on continuity and established partnerships.

Mali’s projected line-up is built around a three-player midfield and three attackers, while Cape Verde are set to rely on two forwards supported by a four-player midfield. The contrast in shape could make the organisation of the middle third and the individual battles on the pitch especially important.

The starting line-ups remain probable rather than confirmed, with both coaches still to announce their final teams. For now, Karentao, F. Dembele, Konte, Sogore, Sissoko, S. Traore, Niakate, F. Diarra, Diabate, A. Diarra and A. Traore are expected to represent Mali, while Jacinta, Pereira, Fortes, Santos, Lopes, Martins, Gomes, Melo, Moreira, Vieira and Mendes are the anticipated choices for Cape Verde.