Mali coach expects a tough opener against Egypt

CAIRO – 8 November 2019: Mali U-23 national team faces Egypt at the opening game of Africa U-23 Cup of Nations at Cairo Stadium in front of the host nation’s passionate fans.

The team manager, Fanyéri Diarra, believes his team will face a tough test but they will do their best to deliver and please the Malian fans.

“It’s going to be a tough game against the hosts. We always play to please our viewers and we want to give a good image for Malian football.” Diarra said.

Mali plays in Group A alongside Cameroon, Ghana and the host nation, Egypt and the Malian manager aims to have a strong start at the competition to secure one of the qualifying tickets to the Olympic Games.

Diarra added “All the teams here deserve to be here. At this level there are no easy games and every team has their chance. Playing against the hosts come with pressure but we are up to it.”

Africa U-23 Cup of Nations gets underway on Friday night at Cairo Stadium when Egypt kicks off the tournament against tournament favorites, Mali.