Mali head coach Tom Saintfiet has admitted he is stunned by Ghana’s failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
The four-time African champions endured a disastrous qualifying campaign, failing to win any of their six matches. The Black Stars finished bottom of their group with just three points, marking the first time in more than 20 years that they will miss Africa’s flagship tournament.
Speaking to the press ahead of Mali’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Ghana on Sunday, September 8, at the Accra Sports Stadium, Saintfiet expressed both shock and admiration for the Black Stars.
“It will be a very tough task. I have huge respect for the Ghanaian team. I really believe they have everything, and it’s shocking that they won’t play at AFCON,” the Belgian coach said.
He added: “A country like Ghana must become African champions in the near future with all the quality they possess.”
Kick-off for the Ghana-Mali clash is scheduled for 19:00 GMT.
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