Preview: Goal-shy Comoros face must-win battle with Mali to keep AFCON dream alive

Mali looks to secure an AFCON Round of 16 berth on Monday as they face a struggling Comoros side that is yet to score in the tournament and faces a must-win scenario.

Comoros and Mali are set to meet in a decisive Group A clash at the Mohammed V Stadium this Monday.

For Mali, the objective is clear: a victory will officially guarantee their progression to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations knockout stages.

Having secured draws against both Zambia and Morocco in their opening fixtures, the Eagles remain unbeaten and are heavy favorites to advance given their tactical resilience and superior squad depth.

Comoros enters the match under significant pressure, still searching for their first goal of the tournament.

After a 2-0 opening loss to hosts Morocco and a resilient 0-0 draw against Zambia, the Coelacanths sit on the brink of elimination.

Head coach Stefano Cusin has prioritized a compact defensive structure, but his side must now find a way to break an attacking drought that has seen them fail to score in four consecutive competitive matches.

Historical context favors the West African nation, as Mali recorded two comfortable 3-0 victories over Comoros during the 2025 World Cup qualifying campaign.

Mali’s leading threat, Lassine Sinayoko, has been in exceptional form, converting penalties in both of his side’s previous group games.

With captain Yves Bissouma returning to full fitness, Tom Saintfiet’s team appears well-equipped to replicate their past successes against the island nation and secure a top-two finish.

Despite being the underdogs, Comoros demonstrated improved stability after making four defensive changes in their last outing.

Cusin is expected to maintain that lineup as they look to cause a major upset. However, with Mali conceding only four goals across their last six matches, the Coelacanths face a formidable challenge.

A draw may not be enough for either side depending on results elsewhere, ensuring a high-stakes encounter under the Casablanca lights.