AFCON: Mali vs Côte d'Ivoire Prediction

EXPECTED XI

Mali

PREDICTED XI (4-1-2-1-2): Diarra; H. Traore, Kouyate, Niakate, Sacko; Camara; Coulibaly, Haidara; Doumbia; Sinayoko, A. Traore

Côte d'Ivoire

PREDICTED XI (4-5-1): Fofana; Aurier, Kossounou, Ndicka, Konan; Diakite, Sangare, Seri, Fofana, Gradel; Haller

PREDICTION

Mali delivered a compelling performance in their recent victory, prevailing 2-1 against Burkina Faso, the 2022 semi-finalists, with a strong midfield presence and notable contributions from Lassine Sinayoko. Now pitted against Côte d'Ivoire, the hosts who progressed to the knockout stage as one of the superior third-placed teams. The Ivorians, buoyed by a surprise win against the defending champions in the round of 16, are beginning to sense destiny on their side. Given their recent success and home-field advantage, an Ivorian victory is on the cards.