Preview: Ghana vs Mali - prediction, team news, lineups

The Accra Sports Stadium will provide the backdrop on Monday as Ghana host Mali in a crucial CAF Group I World Cup qualifier.

With only two rounds left, the Black Stars lead the table but cannot afford slip-ups against a Mali side still firmly in contention for a top-two finish.

Match preview

Ghana entered the September window with momentum, but a late setback against Chad highlighted both their strengths and vulnerabilities.

The Black Stars looked in control for large spells in N’Djamena, Jordan Ayew’s early strike seemingly setting them on course for a routine win. Yet wastefulness in attack, including missed opportunities from Antoine Semenyo and Mohammed Kudus, left the door open for their hosts, who snatched a dramatic equaliser in the 89th minute.

That 1-1 draw cost Ghana the chance to extend their cushion at the top, though results elsewhere kept them three points clear of Madagascar and four above Mali.

Otto Addo’s side are still well-placed to qualify for back-to-back World Cups, but sharper finishing and greater control in midfield will be needed if they are to avoid more late frustrations.

Home form has been a strong foundation for Ghana’s campaign, with the Black Stars unbeaten in Accra so far in qualifying.

Defensively, they have conceded just five goals in seven games, but their inability to kill off matches has been the main talking point.

With the likes of Kudus and Ayew supporting Semenyo in attack, this Ghana side have plenty of quality, but consistency remains the challenge.

For Mali, the picture is equally intriguing. After a stop-start campaign that included too many draws, the Eagles reignited their qualification hopes with an emphatic 3-0 victory over Comoros last time out.

Dorgeles Nene, Kamory Doumbia, and Lassana Coulibaly all got on the scoresheet in a display that showcased both cutting-edge and balance, qualities Tom Saintfiet’s men have often lacked in this cycle.

The visitors have proven difficult to beat, losing just once in seven outings, but their three draws have left them playing catch-up.

Still, their defensive stability is impressive: with only four goals conceded so far, they boast one of the stingiest backlines in the group. What Saintfiet now demands is greater ruthlessness in attack, where Doumbia and El Bilal Toure have often flattered to deceive despite flashes of brilliance.

With the gap to second-placed Madagascar just a single point, Mali know victory in Accra would put them firmly back in the race for automatic qualification.

Ghana World Cup Qualifying - Africa form:

L W W W W D

Ghana form (all competitions):

L W W L W W

Mali World Cup Qualifying - Africa form:

D L L D W W

Mali form (all competitions):

L D W D L W

Team News

Ghana could shuffle their pack after a disappointing performance against Chad. Thomas Partey is tipped to start in midfield, adding steel and experience in place of Salis Abdul Samed.

Mohammed Salisu is also in line for a recall to the heart of defence, potentially alongside Joseph Aidoo or Alexander Djiku.

Kudus and Ayew should retain their places as the main attacking outlets, while Semenyo’s industry ensures he remains key in the front three.

Mali, meanwhile, head into this clash with confidence and relatively few injury worries.

Yves Bissouma has been left out following a dip in club form, but Saintfiet has plenty of depth in midfield with Lassana Coulibaly and Amadou Haidara excelling in recent outings.

Dorgeles Nene, fresh off his goal against Comoros, will provide width, while Kamory Doumbia is expected to retain his creative role.

At the back, experienced captain Hamari Traoré leads a disciplined unit that has conceded less than a goal per game.

Ghana possible starting lineup:

Asare; Mensah, Salisu, Opoku, Djiku; Partey, Francis; Semenyo, Kudus, Schindler; Ayew

Mali possible starting lineup:

Diarra; Diakite, Niakate, Dante, Nene; Coulibaly, Dieng, Fofana; Doumbia, Traore, Sangare

We say: Ghana 1-1 Mali

Both teams arrive with plenty to play for. Ghana are aiming to consolidate their lead and Mali looking to force their way back into contention.

The hosts’ firepower, especially in Accra, makes them favourites, but Mali’s defensive organisation and recent attacking revival mean this could be a far tighter contest than the standings suggest.

For data analysis of the most likely results, scorelines and more for this match please click here.