WAFCON 2024: South Africa vs Mali – Preview & Score Prediction
Both sides sit at the top of the table with four points from two matches, but South Africa lead the group on goal difference. A win for either team will see them finish as group leaders, while a draw would be enough for South Africa to stay ahead.
Kick-off is at 8 p.m. Moroccan time (GMT+1), and fans can catch the action live on beIN Sports, CANAL+, New WorldTV, SuperSport, Azam Media, SABC, Ziggo, BAND, SportTV, and Arena Sport.
Banyana Banyana have already secured a quarterfinal spot following other group results. Head coach Dr Desiree Ellis, however, insists they will play for the win. 'We can get a point, but I think to play for a point is very dangerous,' she told SAFA Media. 'We're not that kind of team that will take it out of our hands.'
South Africa, the reigning champions, have looked solid so far, conceding just once. Midfielder Amogelang Motau stressed the importance of staying focused. 'The mentality was to take it one game at a time. That is what won us the tournament in 2022,' she said.
Mali, meanwhile, remain confident. They beat Tanzania 1-0 and drew 1-1 with Ghana. Coach Mohamed Saloum says they are prepared to take on the champions. 'We know South Africa very well. They are compact. But we shall rely on our quality,' he said.
Their last meeting was in 2018, with South Africa winning 2-0. Mali now believe they've grown and are ready to compete.
Score Prediction:
If you had to put money on it, you'd fancy South Africa to just edge it. Mali won't roll over, but Banyana Banyana's class should shine through.
MWN calls it: 2-1 to South Africa. Tags: maliSouth AfricaWAFCONWOmen's Africa Cup of Nations
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