Mali Eyes Crucial Victory in Ethiopia as AFCON Qualification Push Intensifies
Addis Ababa — Mali’s national team will take a decisive step toward qualification for the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) if they can overcome Ethiopia in their upcoming double-header, starting this weekend in Addis Ababa.
With both sides vying for a place at the continental tournament in Morocco, Malian defender Salif Coulibaly has underlined the importance of securing maximum points, describing the encounter as a pivotal moment in the Eagles’ campaign.
“If we manage both matches well, it would be another step toward Morocco,” Coulibaly told local media. “Today, we have our destiny in our hands. We are only thinking about victory—there is no other scenario if we want to preserve all our chances of qualification.”
Mali currently sit level on points with Malawi in Group B, following a narrow 1-0 loss to Algeria last month. With only the top two teams guaranteed a place at the finals, victory over Ethiopia—who are bottom of the group—would provide much-needed momentum and put the Eagles firmly back on track.
Despite Ethiopia’s modest record so far, Coulibaly insists the team must not underestimate their hosts. Instead, he emphasized the mental aspect of the contest and the need for collective effort across the pitch.
“These kinds of matches are won mentally, by showing fighting spirit and passion,” he said. “Everyone is playing for qualification. We absolutely must improve in attack to score more often—that would make our task easier. Everyone is involved, not just the forwards.”
Coulibaly also noted that Mali’s overall performance has been steadily improving, citing recent matches as evidence of growing cohesion and belief within the squad.
“For the past six or seven matches, we’ve been playing better. The team is improving,” he added. “If we continue like this and bring a little more determination, I am sure we will reach our goal—qualification for the final phase.”
Led by captain Seydou Keita, the Eagles have a mix of experience and emerging talent, and will look to take control of Group B as the qualifying rounds reach their midpoint. The pressure, however, remains high, with Algeria unbeaten and Malawi also in the hunt.
Mali’s trip to Addis Ababa this weekend marks the beginning of a critical phase. With the reverse fixture to follow shortly after, the outcome of these two matches could well determine whether the Eagles will soar into Morocco next January—or face another qualification heartbreak.
