Mali Names 23-Man Squad for Crucial AFCON Qualifiers Against Malawi and Algeria
With redemption on their minds after a disappointing home draw against Ethiopia on Matchday 4, Mali is gearing up for two decisive Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Malawi (Nov 15) and Algeria (Nov 19). Coach Henryk Kasperczak has announced a 23-man squad featuring key veterans and fresh firepower, determined to secure a spot in the 2015 AFCON tournament.
🔙 Keita and Diabaté Lead the Charge
The experienced Seydou Keita (AS Roma) and Bordeaux striker Cheick Diabaté headline the selection. Both will play a pivotal role in guiding the Eagles through the final group-stage hurdles.
However, Mamadou Samassa and Mahamane Traoré miss out due to injury.
🇲🇱 Mali’s Full Squad
🧤 Goalkeepers:
Oumar Sissoko (Ajaccio)
Germain Berthé (Club Olympique de Bamako)
Soumaila Diakité (Esteghlal Khuzestan FC)
🛡️ Defenders:
Adama Tamboura (Randers FC)
Ousmane Coulibaly (Platanias FC)
Idrissa Coulibaly (Hassania d’Agadir)
Drissa Diakité (SC Bastia)
Salif Coulibaly (TP Mazembe)
Mohamed Konaté (RSB Berkane)
Fousseni Diawara (Tours FC)
🧠 Midfielders:
Bakary Sako (Wolverhampton)
Tongo Doumbia (Toulouse)
Mamoutou N’Diaye (Zulte-Waregem)
Bakaye Traoré (Bursaspor)
Seydou Kéïta (AS Roma)
Yacouba Sylla (Kayseri Erciyesspor)
Sigamary Diarra (Valenciennes FC)
Sambou Yatabaré (Guingamp)
🎯 Forwards:
Cheick Diabaté (Bordeaux)
Abdoulaye Diaby (Mouscron-Peruwelz)
Mustapha Yatabaré (Trabzonspor)
Mohamed Traoré (Al-Merrikh)
Nouha Dicko (Wolverhampton)
⚠️ Mali’s Situation in the Group
Mali is fighting for qualification in a group where Algeria has already punched their ticket. With the race tight, these next two matches will determine whether Kasperczak’s men can keep their AFCON 2015 hopes alive.
A strong showing, particularly against Malawi, is essential before their final showdown with Algeria.
