Chelle downplays favourites tag ahead of Tunisia clash

Mali will look to strengthen their grip at the top of Group E at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations this week when they take on Tunisia at the Amadou Gon Coulibaly on Saturday, 20 January.

Kick-off is at 10pm (CAT)

CURRENT FORM

Despite their impressive form heading into the tournament, Tunisia suffered a shock 1-0 defeat against Namibia in their opening Afcon fixture on Tuesday, 16 January. Mali on the other hand, climbed to the top of Group E following their 2-0 victory over South Africa the same day.

TEAM NEWS

Tunisia striker Taha Yassine Khenissi suffered an early injury in the defeat to Namibia and could be a doubt for the upcoming fixture. Mali are currently sweating over the fitness of Moussa Diarra and Yves Bissouma, who have been suffering from an unknown illness.

What was said…

“Everyone knows how to attack and defend, and this gives an idea about the development of football on the African continent. We lost the match to a respectable team. We were stronger on paper, but Namibia showed that they were stronger than us in the match,” Tunisia coach Jalel Kadri mentioned after his side’s defeat to Namibia.

“There are two matches remaining, and our reaction must be positive, and God-willing, we can get out of this situation we have put ourselves in.

“Each nation has its chance, and this tournament will be very interesting because each team has qualities,” said Mali coach Eric Chelle, after beating Bafana Bafana earlier this week.

“I would not say we are favourites to win the group just yet. Yes, we got the victory but a lot can still happen. We still have matches to play and so we have to keep working hard.”

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Tunisia: Youssef Msakni – The skilful attacker was one of Tunisia’s best players against Namibia and created numerous chances throughout the game. Msakni has also been in good goal-scoring form recently, while his experience will be needed in guiding Tunisia back to winning ways.

Mali: Hamari Traore – Traore played a starring role in Mali’s victory against South Africa as he managed to get his name on the scoreboard and also, leaving the pitch with a clean sheet. The right-back will once again be counted on to lead the team from the back against Tunisia.

HEAD-TO-HEAD

As far as the head-to-head count is concerned, the Carthage Eagles have a slight advantage over Mali. In the last five matches played in all competitions, Tunisia recorded two victories compared to just one by Mali, with two draws played out during this period.

Tunisia and Mali have met on three occasions at the Afcon, with all three matches played in the Group stages. Mali bagged two wins against Tunisia, with the most recent being a 1-0 win at the previous edition of the tournament.