Mali and Tunisia will go head-to-head in the round of 16 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations at Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca on Saturday. The Eagles aim to continue their steady progress into the quarter-finals, while the Carthage Eagles seek to make amends after an early exit at the 2023 tournament in Ivory Coast.
Match Preview: Mali’s Defensive Solidity
Mali progressed to the knockout stages after finishing second in Group A, remaining unbeaten but without a victory. The Eagles opened with 1–1 draws against Zambia and hosts Morocco before a goalless draw with Comoros secured their passage.
Their group-stage campaign reflected a disciplined defensive approach, conceding just two goals while scoring the same. Across their last six competitive matches, Mali have been difficult to break down, recording two wins and four draws, including a World Cup qualifying victory over Madagascar. Historically, Mali have been regular AFCON performers, reaching knockout rounds consistently despite never winning the tournament, with their best finish being runners-up in 1972.
Head-to-head history against Tunisia shows closely contested matches, with 13 meetings since 1994 producing six Tunisian wins, four for Mali, and three draws. The last two encounters ended in stalemates, suggesting another tight contest is likely.
Tunisia’s Attack-Focused Approach
Tunisia reached the round of 16 by finishing second in Group C behind Nigeria. Their campaign included a 3–1 win over Uganda, a narrow 3–2 defeat to Nigeria, and a 1–1 draw with Tanzania. The Carthage Eagles scored six goals and conceded five in the group stage, highlighting a more open style of play with attacking threats but occasional defensive lapses.
Tunisia’s broader form shows steady performance, with three wins, two draws, and one defeat in their last six competitive fixtures. AFCON experience remains a major asset for the Carthage Eagles, who won the tournament in 2004 and consistently navigate the pressures of knockout football with composure.
Form Guide
Mali (AFCON 2025): D D D
Mali (all competitions): W W D D D D
Tunisia (AFCON 2025): W L D
Tunisia (all competitions): D W W W L D
Team News
Mali will be without key midfielder Amadou Haidara, suspended after a red card against Comoros, although the Malian Football Federation has appealed the decision. Sikou Niakate has returned to individual training, while Hamari Traore continues his rehabilitation.
Tunisia arrive with an almost full-strength squad. Mohamed Ali Ben Romdhane sustained a knee contusion against Nigeria but is expected to be fit. Elias Achouri also recovered from a minor knock sustained against Tanzania and is expected to play.
Probable Lineups
Mali: Diarra; W. Coulibaly, Diaby, O. Camara, Gassama; Dieng, Doumbia, L. Coulibaly, Sangare, Bissouma; Sinayoko
Tunisia: Dahmen; Abdi, Talbi, Bronn, Valery; Skhiri, Gharbi, Mejbri; Achouri, Tounekti, Mastouri
Prediction
Expect a tight, tactical battle between two sides familiar with each other’s strengths and weaknesses. A stalemate in regulation time seems likely, with Mali predicted to edge through to the quarter-finals after a penalty shootout.
Score Prediction: Mali 1–1 Tunisia (Mali win AET)
