Morocco v Mali: kick-off time, TV channel and team news for friendly

Morocco and Mali meet in Tangier on Sunday in a friendly arranged during the international break, with the Atlas Lions aiming to protect their place in the FIFA rankings.

The match at the Grand Stade de Tanger will kick off at 19:00 French time, 18:00 in Morocco and 17:00 in Mali.

In France, the game is expected to be shown by beIN Sports, although the specific channel has not been confirmed. Viewers in Morocco will be able to watch on Arryadia, Al Aoula and beIN Sports 6 Mena, while the match will probably be broadcast by ORTM in Mali.

Both teams have made perfect starts to their respective 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaigns.

Morocco defeated Gabon 2-0 before winning 2-0 away to Lesotho. Mali also began with two victories, beating Cape Verde 3-1 and then overcoming Liberia 1-0.

The friendly therefore comes with added significance for Morocco, who are looking to hold on to fifth place in the FIFA rankings after moving above Brazil during this international window. Mali, meanwhile, will be seeking a notable result against Africa’s top-ranked side.

Morocco will be without Noussair Mazraoui, who could be replaced at left-back by Anass Salah-Eddine. Nayef Aguerd is expected to return to the defence after missing the match against Lesotho. Mali go into the game with their squad available.

The fixture will be the second meeting between the sides in less than a year. They drew 1-1 in the group stage of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Rabat on 26 December.

Brahim Diaz put Morocco ahead in first-half stoppage time in the 45th minute plus five, before Lassine Sinayoko levelled in the 64th minute, shortly after the hour mark.

Morocco have not lost to Mali in their past four meetings, recording two wins and two draws. That record adds to their advantage before Sunday’s game, alongside their stronger position on paper. Mali are currently moving between 47th and 46th in the FIFA rankings.

The friendly was scheduled after the planned meeting between Morocco and Ghana was cancelled because of internal problems within the Black Stars.