As the race for a spot in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) heats up, Mozambique vs Mali face off in a decisive Group I match. Both teams are locked on points, making this encounter at the Estadio do Zimpeto critical for their qualification hopes. With their first clash ending in a hard-fought 1-1 draw, another intense showdown is anticipated in Maputo. Mozambique will rely on home advantage, while Mali aims to capitalize on their experience to secure the top position in the group.
Mozambique vs Mali Match Details
- Date: Friday, November 17, 2024
- Time: 18:00 CAT
- Venue: Estadio do Zimpeto, Maputo, Mozambique
- Broadcast: SABC, SABC Plus, SuperSport
Previous Head-to-Head
In their last meeting, Mozambique and Mali ended in a 1-1 draw. Geny Catamo’s goal for Mozambique was balanced by Yves Bissouma’s second-half strike for Mali. This outcome reflected the close match-up between the sides, setting the stage for a critical clash this Friday.
Recent Form
Mozambique:
- Mozambique is coming off a 3-0 victory over Eswatini, with Domingues, Stanley Ratifo, and Geny Catamo securing the win. Unbeaten in the qualifiers, Mozambique holds two wins and two draws, sitting atop Group I on goal difference.
Mali:
- Mali played to a goalless draw against Guinea-Bissau in their previous match, missing an opportunity to lead Group I. Prior to this, Mali had achieved 1-0 wins over Eswatini and Guinea-Bissau, demonstrating a strong defense.
Players to Watch
- Mozambique: Geny Catamo and Stanley Ratifo bring pace and precision to the Mozambique attack, with the experienced Domingues adding creativity.
- Mali: Yves Bissouma’s midfield prowess and Adama Traore’s experience are vital, with El Bilal Toure’s goal-scoring threat key to Mali’s attack.
Current Injuries
- Mozambique: No notable injuries; a full squad is expected.
- Mali: All key players available, with no reported injuries.
Betting Odds
| Outcome | Betting Odds |
|---|---|
| Full-Time Result | 3.00 |
| Both Teams to Score – Yes | 1.95 |
| Over 2.5 Goals | 2.20 |
| Under 2.5 Goals | 1.65 |
| Mozambique to Win by 1 Goal | 4.50 |
| Mali to Win by 1 Goal | 3.80 |
| Mozambique Clean Sheet – Yes | 3.20 |
| Mali Clean Sheet – Yes | 2.70 |
Betting Tips
- Both Teams to Score: A tight affair is expected, but both teams are likely to score given their recent form.
- Under 2.5 Goals: With Mali’s solid defense, a low-scoring game seems probable.
- Mali to Win by 1 Goal: Mali’s experience might give them the edge in what is expected to be a close match.
Mozambique vs Mali Prediction Breakdown
With both teams tied on points, a thrilling contest is likely as Mozambique and Mali battle to gain a clear lead in Group I. While Mozambique enjoys the home advantage, Mali’s experience could prove decisive. Prediction: Mozambique 1-2 Mali
Predicted Starting Line-ups
Mozambique:
Ernani; Langa, Chambuco, Reinildo, Matola; Jone, Amade; Catamo, Santos, Blaque; Ratifo
Mali:
Diarra; Doucoure, Diaby, Fofana, Diakite; Sangare, Dieng, Camara; Djenepo, Bissouma, Toure
Conclusion
As they fight for the top spot in Group I, Mozambique and Mali are expected to deliver an intense battle in Maputo. While Mozambique’s unbeaten run offers confidence, Mali’s strength on paper and tournament experience may see them edge this contest.
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