Morocco and Mali set for friendly as probable line-ups emerge

Morocco are expected to retain much of the team that started their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign when they face Mali in a friendly on Sunday, 4 October 2026 at 18:00 GMT.

The match will provide Morocco’s coaching staff with an opportunity to maintain the understanding developed during victories over Gabon and Lesotho, while also assessing players returning from injury and testing alternative options ahead of future fixtures.

Morocco’s likely XI

The Moroccan staff are expected to keep the core of the side involved in the opening two qualifying rounds. The approach would preserve the team’s balance and cohesion after a successful start, although some changes could be made to give playing time to established players coming back from injury.

Goalkeeper: Yassine Bounou

Defenders: Ali Maamar, Issa Diop, Abdelhamid Ait Boudlal, Noussair Mazraoui

Midfielders: Ayyoub Bouaddi, Neil El Aynaoui, Azzedine Ounahi

Forwards: Brahim Diaz, Soufiane Rahimi, Yassir Zabiri

Morocco’s likely line-up includes experience in defence and midfield, alongside a forward line featuring Brahim Diaz, Soufiane Rahimi and Yassir Zabiri.

Mali expected to use 4-3-3

Mali are also expected to start with an attacking 4-3-3 formation. The system is designed to make use of the side’s strengths, with a three-man midfield providing both defensive cover and support for attacks.

The wide players are expected to use their speed and direct running to stretch Morocco’s defence, while the central striker will act as a focal point for the Eagles’ attacking moves.

Goalkeeper: Djigui Diarra

Defenders: Hamari Traore, Ousmane Camara, Souleymane Sagnan, Nathan Gassama

Midfielders: Aliou Dieng, Mahamadou Doumbia, Mamadou Sangare

Forwards: Nene Dorgeles, Lassine Sinayoko, Gaoussou Diarra

The friendly will give both teams the chance to assess their squads in a competitive international setting, with Morocco seeking to build on their recent qualifying results and Mali preparing to challenge a side that has begun its campaign with two wins.