The Eagles of Mali will face off against the Carthage Eagles of Tunisia in the Africa Cup of Nations round of 16 at Casablanca’s Mohammed V Stadium on Saturday. Mali aims to secure another quarterfinal appearance, while Tunisia looks to bounce back from their group-stage exit in the 2023 tournament.
Mali completed an unbeaten group stage with three draws, demonstrating strong defensive resilience by conceding only two goals. Coach Tom Saintfiet’s side will be without key midfielder Amadou Haidara due to suspension, though Sikou Niakate and Hamari Traore are recovering from injuries and expected to be available.
Tunisia finished second in Group C, posting a 3-2-1 record under coach Sami Trabelsi. The squad is nearly at full strength, with Mohamed Ali Ben Romdhane sidelined by a knee injury as the main concern.
The two teams share a competitive history, each winning six of their last 13 encounters. Expect a tactical and intense match that could extend into extra time.
By Andrews Addotey
