2019 Africa Cup Of Nations – Mali vs Ivory Coast Preview & Prediction
THE FACTS
When is Mali vs Ivory Coast taking place? Monday 8th July, 2019 – 17:00 (UK)
Where is Mali vs Ivory Coast taking place? Suez Stadium, Suez
What television channel is Mali vs Ivory Coast on? All AFCON matches will be televised live on either Eurosport 1 or 2
Where can I stream Mali vs Ivory Coast? Subscribers can stream the match via Eurosport Player
Where can I get tickets for Mali vs Ivory Coast? https://www.footballticketnet.com/2019-africa-cup-of-nations
THE TEAM NEWS
MALI
- Mali were the standout team of Group E in the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations as they topped the group with seven points, four points more than second-placed Tunisia after they won their final game against Angola.
- With qualification secure, Mali opted to make eight changes to their starting XI and despite all of the upheaval, they were able to claim a 1-0 win thanks to Amadou Haidara’s first half effort.
- The Malians will need to improve in the knockout stages despite their solid group campaign but with the majority of their first-choice side receiving a well-earned rest, they should come back refreshed for this last 16 clash.
IVORY COAST
- Ivory Coast secured the win they needed to progress to the last 16 of the Africa Cup of Nations as they ran out big winners over Namibia but were given a scare in their Group D contest.
- The pressure was on the Ivory Coast to get the win but their nerves were eased when Max Gradel sent put his side ahead before the break and despite doubling their lead through an own goal, Namibia clawed a goal back before late goals from Wilfried Zaha and Maxwell Cornet sealed the victory.
- That win ensured the Ivory Coast finished second in their group and will need to improve on an inconsistent effort in the group stage but having made his first start of the tournament, Wilfried Zaha will be hoping to retain his place and help lead his team to the latter stages.
Click here to read our Ghana vs Tunisia prediction!
THE PREDICTION
Ivory Coast have some brilliant attacking talent in their squad and could be a match for anyone at the Africa Cup of Nations. They showed some of that against Namibia as they scored four goals to secure their spot in the knockout stages. Wilfried Zaha was finally given a start but with plenty of competition for places in attack, getting the team selection right could be key. They face Mali in their first knockout game and whilst they enjoyed a more successful group stage, the Ivory Coast can click into gear and progress to the last-eight.
