In a vital Group A showdown, Comoros will face Mali on Monday at the Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Both teams are battling for advancement to the knockout stage, heightening the stakes of this encounter.
Match Implications
A victory for Comoros is essential to keep their qualification hopes alive. Their chances hinge, partially, on the outcome of the Morocco vs. Zambia match. Conversely, a win for Mali would guarantee their progression to the next round.
Comoros’ Tournament Journey
Comoros enters this match still searching for their first goal of the tournament, following a challenging start. They began their campaign with a 2–0 loss to Morocco on December 21, conceding both goals in the second half after a solid defensive performance initially. This was followed by a goalless draw against Zambia on December 26.
This tournament marks the second appearance for Comoros in the Africa Cup of Nations, their first being in 2021, where they reached the round of 16 and pulled off a historic win against Ghana. Their qualification for the 2025 tournament was achieved by topping their qualifying group, underscoring their growing presence in African football.
Under head coach Stefano Cusin, Comoros has emphasized a structured defensive approach. However, their attacking struggles have been pronounced, failing to score in their last four competitive matches, while conceding eight goals in that same span. Previously, they suffered two defeats against Mali during the 2025 CAF World Cup qualifiers, losing 3–0 in both encounters.
Mali’s Current Form
Mali approaches this match unbeaten and well-positioned for knockout stage qualification. They drew their opening matches against Zambia and Morocco, both finishing 1–1. In both fixtures, Lassine Sinayoko scored from the penalty spot, showcasing his critical role in the team’s offensive strategy.
The Eagles, known for their consistent AFCON performances, entered the tournament with a strong track record. Their recent form includes two convincing victories over Comoros in World Cup qualifiers, scoring six goals while keeping clean sheets. Defensively, Mali has proven to be solid, conceding only four goals in their last six matches.
Team News and Expected Lineups
Comoros Starting Lineup
- Pandor
- Abdallah
- Toibibou
- Soilihi
- Boura
- Bakari
- Bourhane
- Z. Youssouf
- M’Changama
- Maolida
- Said
Mali Starting Lineup
- Diarra
- W. Coulibaly
- Diaby
- O. Camara
- Gassama
- Dieng
- Doumbia
- L. Coulibaly
- Sangare
- Bissouma
- Sinayoko
Match Prediction
Comoros enters this match as the underdog, having not won in their last six outings, with significant offensive challenges. Mali seems to have the upper hand, performing well in their preliminary matches and holding a favorable historical record against Comoros. The anticipated outcome is a victory for Mali, potentially with a score of 2–0.
