Mali
Introduction
Do Mali care that they have attained a reputation as purveyors of football from a bygone era? With four semi-finals appearances out of their last six appearances, stretching back to the 2002 edition, they probably don’t. Although qualification for this year's tournament was somewhat cagey, they have shown no sign of deviating from their disruptive, scrappy style of play.
Losses at home to Ethiopia and away to Malawi, and the five goals conceded in those two losses, suggests Mali’s renowned rigidity is not as – pun intended - polished as it should be under Henryk Kasperczak. Still, an impressive final matchday win over table-topping Algeria was enough to see them qualify as Group B’s runners up.
Despite the impressive Afcon record over the last decade, Mali still amble into the tournament with few fancying their chances. As ever, the height at which the Eagles will soar largely hinges on the form of Seydou Keita, the emotional heartbeat of the team. One of the outstanding players at Afcon 2013, his timely goals and preternatural demeanour will be pivotal in a team that has shown little box-office quality in the last two tournaments.
Mali have dipped their hand into their diaspora to unearth some rough diamonds, making this team a tad more exciting proposition than the teams of yesteryear. In the in-form French-born duo of Abdoulaye Diaby and Wolverhampton Wanderer’s Bakary Sako, the tools to be adventurous are available should Kasperczak choose to do so.
But, even if they display their typically dour brand of football on Africa’s main canvas yet again, Les Aigles will be remorseless about their style if their substance is another appearance in the final four.
The Framework
Expect a 4-5-1 formation with a starting XI that compromises mostly of players standing at 6 foot and over. This is an obstructive, physically robust team that will commit plenty of fouls - even technically superior opposition will find it tough to establish a rhythm against them. Due to their size advantage, Mali’s danger is likely to come from set-pieces and crosses into the box. Keep an eye on the sudden and incessant sprints from left back Adama Tamboura down the flank, one of the distinct features of Mali's attacking play.