Mali Eye AFCON 2015 Final but Acknowledge Tough Road Ahead
Bamako — 6 May 2014
Mali international Sigmary Diarra has urged his teammates to stay focused and aim higher as the West African nation begins its qualification journey for the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The Eagles have been drawn in Group B alongside World Cup-bound Algeria, Ethiopia, and a fourth team to be determined through preliminary rounds. Speaking to Radio France Internationale (RFI), Diarra acknowledged the strength of the group but suggested that Mali’s biggest challenge may be internal.
“Our main opponent will be ourselves,” said the 30-year-old midfielder. “We’ve finished third in the last two tournaments, and now we need to prove we can do even better. Our goal is to reach the final this time. That would show real progress.”
Mali impressed in both the 2012 and 2013 editions of the tournament, claiming back-to-back bronze medals. But for Diarra and many within the national setup, that is no longer enough. The ambition is clear: secure qualification and challenge for the title.
However, the road to Morocco promises to be anything but straightforward. With Algeria preparing for this summer’s FIFA World Cup in Brazil, they are expected to be the toughest opponents in the group. Diarra, who previously played for FC Lorient in France, singled out the Desert Foxes as a major threat.
“Algeria will undoubtedly be the most difficult team to face,” he said. “But in Africa, it’s never easy. Whether it’s Ethiopia or a lesser-known team, every match will be a battle.”
Mali will be looking to capitalise on their recent consistency in the Africa Cup of Nations. With a core of experienced players and emerging talent, expectations are high in Bamako. Diarra, a veteran of numerous qualifying campaigns, called for discipline and unity if the team is to reach its goal.
The qualifiers are set to begin later this year, with the top two teams from each group and the best third-placed side earning a place at the finals in Morocco.
