African Cup of Nations Group B Preview : Mali

Mali have never qualified for the World Cup and the 2013 ACN will be their eighth appearance in the tournament, with their best result being a runners up place in 1972.

They are however a dominant force in the Amilcar Cup, a tournament for West African nations. They have won the tournament three times and been runners up four times.

How Did They Qualify?

At a canter. Another team with a bye to the second round in this shortened version of qualifying, Mali took on Botswana where they won 3-0 at home and then 4-1 away to ease into the 2013 tournament.

Manager

Patrice Carteron once played eight games on loan at Sunderland, scoring a header against Newcastle in what turned out to be his only goal in a brief loan spell. In his brief time in management, he has been in charge of AS Cannes and then Dijon FCO where he didn’t cut the mustard and was sacked after their relegation in May 2012.

Star Men

Modibo Maïga – A big player up front for his country, especially since Freddie Kanoute stopped playing. Maiga has struggled to find his feet at West Ham but possesses the attributes of a good striker and will be a threat to the tournament’s defences.

Mohamed Sissoko – Liverpool fans will remember this defensive midfielder fondly, as will fans of Juventus and Valencia. An imposing figure in a defensive role, he will be key in protecting the Mali back line.

Seydou Keita – Keita left Barcelona last summer after winning the lot in a four year stint. He might not have been one of the star names but was an important member of the squad who would always give 100%. His top level experience will be vital if Mali want to make an impression.

How Far Can They Go?

There is no reason that they shouldn’t make it out of their group and from there, with a combination of good form and favourable draws, a semi-final spot is entirely within their grasp.