Mali head coach Tom Saintfiet has admitted that his team’s clash with Ghana in Accra carries extra meaning for him, revealing his long-standing desire to one day manage the Black Stars.
The Belgian, who has carved a reputation across Africa as a pragmatic tactician, revealed he once dreamed of managing the Black Stars but was repeatedly overlooked by the Ghana FA. Now, he insists he’s out to prove a point on the pitch.
“I have wanted the Ghana job for at least 10 years,” Saintfiet said.
“But I was overlooked time and time again. At that time, there was no bigger powerhouse in African football than Ghana. We’re here to beat Ghana and make history.”
Saintfiet, renowned for his tactical discipline and ability to grind results with limited resources, believes Ghana are vulnerable and ripe for the taking.
“This is a very winnable game for us,” he continued. “We respect Ghana, of course, but we do not fear them. Our mission is clear: we want to win and put ourselves in a strong position for qualification.”
For Ghana boss Otto Addo, the pressure is already mounting after his side’s frustrating 1-1 draw with Chad. The Black Stars remain top of Group I, but Monday’s clash against Mali is shaping up as a defining moment in their campaign.
Kick-off is at 7:00pm GMT.
By: Pascal Amoah
