Mali v Rwanda: Amavubi aim to extend perfect start in 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying

Mali host Rwanda in the first leg of their Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualifying double-header on Friday, 13 November 2026, with kick-off at 19:00 GMT at Stade du 26 Mars in Bamako.

The match will be broadcast by Canal+ Sport Afrique, beIN SPORTS, Arryadia and Al Aoula.

Mali have the stronger historical record between the two sides. In four World Cup qualifying meetings, the Eagles have won three times and drawn once, remaining unbeaten while scoring seven goals and conceding two.

Mali arrive in strong form

Mali began their qualifying campaign with a 3-1 victory over Cape Verde before securing a 1-0 win away to Liberia. They then drew 1-1 with Morocco in a friendly on 4 October.

The Eagles are unbeaten in their past three matches and have conceded only two goals during that run. Their confidence has also been strengthened by a group of key players who compete in Europe.

Mali will nevertheless face a Rwanda side that has made an impressive start under manager Stephen Constantine. The Amavubi are hoping to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations for the first time since 2004.

Rwanda won both of their opening qualifiers, beating Liberia 3-1 at home before producing a notable 2-1 victory away to Cape Verde. They followed those results with a goalless friendly draw against Kenya on 5 October.

Rwanda targeting another upset

Although Mali are favourites on paper, Africafoot’s assessment is that the contest could end level. The Eagles have shown defensive strength but can sometimes struggle against well-organised teams, while Rwanda have already demonstrated that they can unsettle the group’s stronger sides.

The home advantage in Bamako could benefit Mali, although the workload carried by their senior players may also be a factor. Rwanda’s confidence could allow them to claim a valuable draw before the return fixture.

Africafoot’s prediction is a 2-2 draw.

The betting odds listed for the match are 1.27 for a Mali win, 5.00 for a draw and 10.80 for a Rwanda victory.