Mali coach, Tom Saintfiet, has sent a strong message to the Black Stars ahead of Monday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier, declaring that his side has come to Accra “to win” and to keep their qualification dreams alive.
Speaking to reporters on arrival at Kotoka International Airport on Sunday, September 7, the Belgian coach acknowledged Ghana’s current advantage in Group I but remained adamant that his team is capable of causing an upset.
“At the moment, Ghana is in pole position [to qualify], but we will do everything to qualify, and we will qualify. Ghana is a top team in Africa, but we are here to write history and win,” Saintfiet told eos_official.
His words set the tone for what promises to be a fierce encounter at the Accra Sports Stadium.
Ghana, who top the group with 16 points from seven games, were held to a 1-1 draw in their last outing against Chad after conceding an 89th-minute equaliser.
That late blow left Otto Addo’s side three points ahead of Madagascar and four clear of Mali, with two matches remaining.
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For the Eagles, Monday’s clash is a must-win to close the gap and keep their hopes of a first World Cup appearance since 2010 alive. Their coach’s confident rhetoric reflects both the urgency of their situation and their determination to challenge Ghana’s dominance on home soil.
With the Black Stars needing victory to keep control of the group, and Mali arriving in Accra full of belief, the stage is set for a dramatic showdown that could reshape the path to the 2026 World Cup.
Watch the interview below:
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Meanwhile watch as Black Stars resume training at Accra Sports Stadium ahead of Mali clash
