Mali and Ghana are set to face off in a highly anticipated match in the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign on Thursday, June 6, 2024. The game, scheduled for 19:00 GMT, will take place at the Stade du 26 Mars in Bamako.
This match holds significant importance for both teams as they vie for a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Currently, Mali sits second in their group with four points, having secured a win and a draw in their previous matches.
In contrast, Ghana finds itself in fifth place, with one win from two games, making this fixture crucial for their qualification hopes.
The host team, Mali, has yet to make an appearance at the World Cup. Their previous encounter with Ghana in the qualifiers saw them fall 2-0 in 2009, which contributed to their failure to qualify for the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.
This history adds an extra layer of determination for the Malian side as they seek to make their mark this time around.
Ghana, led by coach Otto Addo, will be banking on the experience of key players like Thomas Partey and Alexander Djiku.
Additionally, the youthful talent of Mohammed Kudus, Ernest Nuamah, Fatawu Issahaku, and Kamaldeen Sulemana is expected to bring dynamism and energy to the team’s efforts in Bamako.
Mali, on the other hand, faces a setback with the absence of their captain Hamari Traore, who is suspended following a red card received during the Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire.
Moreover, Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Yves Bissouma will also be missing from the lineup, posing a challenge for the Malian team.
The match promises to be a thrilling encounter as both teams strive to advance in the World Cup qualifiers.
With Mali aiming to secure their first-ever World Cup berth and Ghana looking to regain their footing in the group standings, fans can expect a fiercely contested game at the Stade du 26 Mars.
Kick-off is set for 19:00 GMT on June 6, 2024, and all eyes will be on Bamako to see which team can seize the advantage in this pivotal qualifying match.
