Tom Saintfiet, head coach of Mali, failed to win over Ghana last night in the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers but has congratulated his opponents for the win and applauded the fans too for what he described as a fantastic atmosphere.
The Black Stars seeked perfect redemption with an important 1-0 win over the Eagles in what was a very difficult and close contest at the Ohene Gyan Stadium.
The tedious nature of the game saw no goal registered at half-time but Alexander Djiku’s close range tap-in from a deep Jordan Ayew’s corner in the opening minutes of the second half made the difference in the end.
In a post-match presser, the Belgian gaffer admitted the Black Stars has so much quality after praising them for a deserved victory.
“Congratulations to all the people in Ghana with the victory,” Saintfiet remarked. “It was a fantastic atmosphere in the stadium. Ghana didn’t play with 11 players but 12 or 13 and that helps the team.”
“Ghana has so many quality players,” Saintfiet stated. “Look at where the players are playing, look at the choices the coach has on the bench, look at the players who weren’t selected and available – so in theory, there can’t be any problem for Ghana to qualify as number one.”
Mali after this loss have their qualification chances in limbo at the moment as they remain in fourth position 12 points
Wins in their remaining matches will still not earn them direct qualification but will give them a playoff opportunity and will have to ensure they beat Chad and Madagascar next to revive the hopes
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