Mali head coach Tom Saintfiet has admitted he is stunned by Ghana’s failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), describing the Black Stars’ absence from Morocco later this year as “shocking.”

The four-time African champions endured a disastrous qualifying campaign, failing to win any of their six matches and finishing bottom of their group with just three points. The setback means Ghana will miss the continent’s premier competition for the first time in over two decades.

Speaking ahead of Mali’s clash with Ghana today, September 8, in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at the Accra Sports Stadium, the Belgian tactician stressed his respect for Otto Addo’s side but could not hide his surprise.

“It will be a very tough task. I have huge respect for the Ghanaian team. I believe they have everything, and it’s shocking that they won’t play AFCON,” Saintfiet said.

“A country like Ghana must become African champion in the near future with all this quality.”

Despite Ghana’s AFCON setback, the Black Stars remain Group I leaders in the World Cup qualifiers with 16 points, and a win over Mali tonight would edge them closer to securing a fifth appearance at the global showpiece.

Kick-off is at 19:00 GMT under the lights at the Accra Sports Stadium.