AFCON 2015: Mali Defeat Algeria to Seal Qualification, Yatabaré Hopes for Rematch
Mali secured their qualification for the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations by defeating Algeria 2-0 in the sixth and final round of qualifying, a result that allowed them to avenge their 1-0 loss in the first leg against the Fennecs.
Speaking after the match, Sambou Yatabaré, who plays for En Avant Guingamp, expressed his satisfaction with Mali’s performance and desire for a rematch at the tournament in Equatorial Guinea.
“Frankly, we expected better, but today (Wednesday), I think we were more motivated, given that Algeria was already guaranteed to play in the Africa Cup of Nations. I didn’t recognize this Algerian team, which wasn’t having a great day. That’s good for us,” said Yatabaré.
Despite Algeria’s confirmed spot prior to the match, Yatabaré emphasized the symbolic importance of the win and voiced his hopes of facing Algeria again deeper into the tournament.
“First of all, I congratulate Algeria for their qualification which was secured for a long time, but that means nothing. We lost 1 goal to 0 in the first leg against this team and we took our revenge by winning 2 to 0. Sincerely, I hope that we will meet again at the CAN in a later round.”
Mali’s victory over one of the continent’s top sides boosts their confidence ahead of the competition, where both teams could cross paths again in what would be a highly anticipated clash.
