Africa Cup of Nations Preview: Mali

Mali scraped through to this year's Africa Cup of Nations final by virtue of goal difference.

Alain Giresse's team advanced from Group A ahead of Cape Verde, Zimbabwe and Liberia.

They made headlines at the 2010 tournament against Angola after coming back from 4-0 down with 15 minutes to play to draw 4-4.

Group: D

Players to watch out for:

Seydou Keita The captain has been a part of Barcelona's great success in recent seasons. The 32-year-old, who is the most capped player in the squad, will be expected to hold everything together in the midfield.

Cheick Diabate The young striker's main attribute is his height, and at 6'4" he should be amongst the goals if given the right service. Is also useful on the deck.

Previous best: Runners-up 1972

Odd to win outright: 20/1

Sports Mole says: Group stages