Doumbia Double Helps Mali Stun Comoros to Revive World Cup Hopes
Mali clinched a vital 3-0 win over Comoros in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, with goals from Dorgeles and Doumbia. The victory elevates Mali to fourth in Group I, just behind Madagascar. Comoros, previously group leaders, drop to third place. Both teams face significant challenges moving forward as the qualifiers continue.
Mali pulled off an impressive 3-0 victory over Comoros during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, played in Berkane, Morocco, on Thursday night. The win boosts Mali’s aspirations for World Cup qualification while also shaking up the dynamics of Group I. With eight points from five matches, Mali has moved to fourth place, just two points behind group leaders Madagascar who currently sit at ten points.
The match’s turning point came in the 20th minute when Nene Dorgeles capitalized on an accurate pass from captain Yves Bissouma, slotting the ball past Comoros goalie Yannick Pandor. The Coelacanths, who had enjoyed a spell at the top of the group prior to this game, attempted to respond disappointingly, with Faïz Selemani’s long-range free kick being the best opportunity that tested Mali’s goalkeeper, Djigui Diarra.
As the second half unfolded, Mali increased their attacking aggression, and it paid off. In the 55th minute, El Bilal Touré delivered a perfect cross that Kamory Doumbia finished coolly into an open goal. Doumbia was not done yet; just eight minutes later, he struck again after receiving a well-timed pass from Bissouma, completing his brace and virtually sealing the match for Mali.
Despite facing a significant deficit, the Comoros team struggled to generate scoring opportunities, failing to find a foothold in the match as Mali positioned themselves defensively solidly. This defeat is notably a setback for Comoros, leaving them in third place with nine points and risking further complications in their tournament run.
Mali, on the other hand, is poised to make a significant comeback. With three matches still ahead in the qualifiers, they have reignited their hopes for a World Cup appearance. Meanwhile, Ghana, who are positioned to challenge Madagascar’s lead, could flip the table with a win against Chad in their upcoming match.
In summary, Mali’s confident 3-0 victory over Comoros not only revives their World Cup hopes but also alters the competitive landscape of Group I. Dorgeles and Doumbia’s goals showcased their effective offensive strategy, while Comoros now faces challenges due to this unexpected defeat. With three matches remaining, both teams will look to solidify their positions in the qualifiers as the competition heats up.
Original Source: www.cafonline.com
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