2025 AFCON: Saintfiet confident despite Mali’s tough AFCON Group

Mali head coach Tom Saintfiet has acknowledged the challenges awaiting his side in Group A of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, but insists the Eagles are ready to fight for a place in the knockout stage.

Group A Challenge

• Mali are paired against hosts Morocco, Zambia, and Comoros.


• Saintfiet described the group as a potential “group of death”, with all four teams capable of progressing.


• He highlighted Comoros’ impressive qualification run, Zambia’s pedigree in African football, and Morocco’s status as clear favourites.

Saintfiet’s Remarks

“Unfortunately, our preparation has been affected by recent changes. We were unable to organise a full training camp or play friendly matches, which means our preparation has not been ideal. That is regrettable.”

On his confidence in the squad:

“I have complete confidence in my team. We have been working together for fifteen months and have achieved good results. I know my players very well and have absolute trust in them and my staff. We will be ready for this competition.”

On objectives:

“Our objective is to qualify for the knockout phase while fully respecting all our opponents. No game will be easy, but I have complete faith in my team. We will reach the knockout stage, 100 per cent.”

Mali’s AFCON History

• Despite producing top talents across Europe, Mali have never won the AFCON trophy.


• Their best performances include reaching the final in 1972 and multiple semi-final appearances.


• Saintfiet believes Mali can go far if “everything goes well.”

Morocco as Favourites

• Saintfiet admitted Morocco remain the tournament favourites, citing their home advantage, strong fan support, and recent success, including a fourth-place finish at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

Tournament Outlook

• AFCON 2025 runs from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026.


• Mali open their campaign against Zambia on December 22, before facing Morocco and Comoros within eight days.