Mali vs. Comoros: World Cup Qualifier Preview and Predictions
Mali will face Comoros in a crucial World Cup qualifier today, needing a win to remain in contention for the 2026 tournament. The match will occur in Morocco due to Comoros’ stadium not meeting FIFA standards, starting at 9 p.m. Moroccan time. Comoros, despite a dip in form, has performed well early in qualifiers, while Mali struggles to secure victories.
Mali is set to compete against Comoros today, necessitating a victory as they have recorded only one win in their last four World Cup qualifying matches. Currently, Mali ranks fourth in their group, trailing Comoros by four points. A defeat may ultimately eliminate their chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.
Originally, the match was scheduled to be held in Comoros; however, due to the local stadium failing to meet FIFA standards, the venue has been relocated to Morocco, specifically at the Stade Municipal de Berkane. The kick-off is scheduled for 9 p.m. Moroccan time (GMT), with fans able to view the match live on L’Équipe, ORTM, and ORTC.
Mali’s performance must improve, having failed to secure victory in their last three outings, with their only success dating back to November 2023 against Chad. They were unable to secure a win against Madagascar, despite having a numerical advantage from the 16th minute. The pressure is intensifying, and a win is vital for their qualification hopes.
Conversely, Comoros began their World Cup qualifying campaign positively, achieving victories against the Central African Republic (4-2) and Ghana (1-0). They currently hold second place with nine points, just one point behind Madagascar, but with one game in hand. However, their form has declined in 2024, suffering a 2-1 defeat to Madagascar and a loss to Malawi in the AFCON playoffs.
The predicted lineups are as follows:
Comoros: Ben Boina; Bakari, Omari, Zahary, Abdullah; Youssouf; Bourhane; Vita, Lutin, Selemani; Maolida.
Mali: Diarra; Konaté, Fofana, Niakaté, Dante; Dieng, Bissouma; Doumbia, Koné, Dorgeles, Touré.
In terms of predictions, Comoros have consistently scored in their last five matches, while both teams have remained unbeaten in their previous seven games. Therefore, a closely contested match is anticipated, potentially leading to a score of Comoros 1, Mali 1, with fewer than 2.5 goals overall.
In conclusion, the upcoming match between Mali and Comoros is critical for Mali’s World Cup aspirations. While Comoros has exhibited strong performances early in the qualifiers, they have experienced a recent decline. The match, relocated to Morocco, represents an opportunity for Mali to keep their qualifying hopes alive. Predictions suggest a tightly contested encounter, likely resulting in a draw.
Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com
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