Mali will host Congo at Stade du 26 Mars in their opening fixture of 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign on Saturday night with kickoff at 22:00.
Mali have a good record when it comes to qualifying for the continental showpiece editions, having not missed out on any AFCON finals since 2008. They have also been doing well in the competition as they have finished as fourth-placed team three times and as third twice.
Being in Group G alongside Congo, Gambia and South Sudan, Mali will fancy their chances of continuing their qualification streak. Also, with a home advantage Mali will fancy their chances of opening on the front foot with a victory on Saturday.
Meanwhile, Congo who are a one-time winner of the competition will be looking for their second appearance in the tournament since 1974. Their last qualification came in 2015, where they got send off in the quarter-finals.
They have a chance of booking their spot in the 2023 edition by clenching the second spot of the group, and could as well challenge for the top spot if they start well on Saturday.
Mali vs Congo head to head
Both sides have met in three encounters since 2008 with Mali claiming two victories, while Congo have claimed one victory.
- Mali 5-4 Congo 30/01/21(AP)
- Congo 1-0 Mali 07/09/08
- Mali 4-2 Congo 01/06/08
Home
- Tunisia 0-0 Mali
- Mali 0-1 Tunisia
- Mali 5-6 Equatorial Guinea (AP)
- Mali 2-0 Mauritania
- Gambia 1-1 Mali
Away
- Congo 1-2 Sierra Leone
- Senegal 2-0 Congo
- Congo 1-1 Namibia
- Congo 1-2 Togo
- Togo 1-1 Congo
Mali team news
Mali have no injury or suspension concerns at the camp ahead of the clash.
Congo team news
There have been no reports of injuries or suspensions in the Congo camp either.
Predictions and odds
- Mali win
- Both sides to score
- Goals over 2.5
