Tom Saintfiet, the newly appointed head coach of Mali’s national football team, met with Malian officials this Monday, setting the stage for what he hopes will be a historic journey. The Belgian coach, who previously led The Gambia, is determined to guide Mali to unprecedented success, including a first-ever qualification for the World Cup.
In an exclusive interview, Saintfiet explained his decision to take on the role with Mali, citing the country’s footballing potential and his personal ambition.
“Mali is one of the best teams in Africa. As a coach, you aspire to lead the best teams in the world, and that’s why I chose Mali,” Saintfiet said.
“I’m here to win titles. My goals align with those of the minister, the president of the federation, and the Malian people.”
Saintfiet’s immediate objective is to secure Mali’s place in the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). However, his ambitions extend beyond the continental tournament. ”
After AFCON, our focus will shift to World Cup qualification. We have six matches remaining—two at home and four away—and we must win them all, particularly against Ghana and the Central African Republic,” he emphasized. “It won’t be easy, but football is a game where anything is possible.”
Saintfiet is confident in the talent available in Mali, describing the squad as blessed with “more than 100 good footballers.”
He believes that with the right mindset and motivation, Mali can achieve great things. “The players must be motivated to wear the national jersey and make history.
When you play for Mali, you must give everything because the people are behind you—on the streets, on social media. I want to build this ambition with my staff, the federation, and the Ministry of Sports.”
While his commitment to Mali is clear, Saintfiet acknowledged the personal and financial sacrifices involved. “I haven’t signed my contract yet, but it will likely be a two-year deal.
This decision wasn’t easy for me. I had a lucrative contract with the Philippines, and when I told my wife about moving to Mali, she said, ‘What are you doing? You’re going to lose a lot of money.’ I understand her concern, but for me, this is about more than money. I want to create something special with Mali.”
Saintfiet, known for his disciplined approach, plans to maintain continuity in the coaching staff by retaining Aliou Badara Diallo, the current interim coach, as his assistant.
“Aliou Badara Diallo is very important. He knows local football well and has won with almost all Malian clubs.
I like working with locals, and I rely on someone who understands the culture and religion of the country,” he explained.
Reflecting on his previous experiences, Saintfiet expressed optimism about Mali’s potential.
“I have worked in Togo, Namibia, and Gambia, but Mali has greater qualities. It’s possible to achieve something significant here.
I will work with everyone—the journalists, the authorities, the players—to ensure we are all pulling in the same direction.
We may not win every match, but I want my players to give their all to make the public happy.”
Saintfiet’s disciplined approach has earned him the nickname “Mr. Discipline” in Togo, a reputation he plans to uphold in Mali.
“I will ensure that we have a disciplined team. I will constantly remind the players that it is an honor to play for their country, and together, we will succeed,” he concluded.
