- 6th confrontation between the two countries
- All in Korhogo Tuesday
The Stallions will face the Eagles of Mali in the round of 16 of the African Cup of Nations which is taking place in Ivory Coast. A confrontation which sounds like a reunion between old acquaintances. This match, described by some as the “derby of the AES (Alliance of Sahel States) which also includes Niger”, will be the sixth in the last 15 years.
In previous confrontations, Mali has recorded 4 victories and a draw. Burkina Faso is still chasing a victory over Mali.
For past matches, Mali has been able to count on big names from its golden generation like Frédéric Kanouté. At the time, the Mali Eagles were frightening and commanded respect against any African team.
This era is now in the rearview mirror of Malian supporters. In Ivory Coast, the Eagles recorded 5 points +2 thanks to their victory against South Africa (2+0) and their two draws against Tunisia (1-1) and Namibia (0-0) .
The Stallions did not do better at CAN 2023. In three outings, they achieved a difficult victory (1-0) against Mauritania, a draw (2-2) against Algeria and a defeat (2- 0) in front of the Palancas Negras. Same performance as in 2021 in Cameroon. The difference was that they finished the group stage on an upward slope.
For the round of 16, both teams will be able to rely on the commitment, determination and talents of the players. Bertrand Traoré, although not in his best form, still constitutes a danger for the opposing team. It will be an opportunity for Dango Ouattara, who is also returning from injury, to confirm all the good things that are said about him.
The first AES derby promises a spectacle for football lovers who will travel to Korhogo or be in front of their small screens.
Issa Sawadogo, special envoy to Bouaké
