Strengths
Togetherness - Though they lost three times during qualifying, Mali are generally hard to beat once conditioned into the tunnel-vision of knockout football. In the last two editions, they have had the mental fortitude to knock out hosts Gabon and South Africa out on penalties. Their third place finishes in the last two editions gives them invaluable experience at this level and, even when facing superior sides, they should not be overawed at this stage.
Weaknesses
Lack of invention - Seydou Keita aside, there are not enough tried and tested players in this Mali team who can conjure moments of brilliance. As impressive as their 3rd place finishes have been in the last 13 years, their failure to progress past that stage reflects the lack of genuine, game-winning quality in the team.
Key Player
Seydou Keita - A model of consistency and decorum at club and international levels, the modest Keita's performances in the last two Cup of Nations have elevated him up there with Africa's all-time greats. Calm, diligent and intelligent in possession, he inspires those around him and has the quality to come up with match-winning moments.
The Hipster Choice
Bakary Sako - The 26-year-old only pledged his allegiance to Mali last year, solving Mali’s long-term search for an orthodox winger, and has added some much-needed spontaneity into the attack. The 3 goals in 8 caps encapsulate his lethality in front of goal and, with his contract at Wolves petering out, bigger clubs will be monitoring Sako closely.
goal and, with his contract at Championship side Wolverhampton Wanderers petering out, bigger clubs will be monitoring Sako closely.
The Coach
Henryk Kasperczak - A member of the Poland team which finished 3rd at the 1974 World Cup, the sexagenarian led a young Mali side to 3rd place when they hosted the tournament in 2002. Coaching in his fifth Cup of Nations, he should bring a wealth of wiliness to the role.
SFG Predicts
Group stage exit - Drawn in the tougher half of the draw, they will have to show far more versatility and quality in their game this time around if they are to complete a hat-trick of consecutive semi-final appearances.
By Salim Masoud Said (@salimosaid)