Mali began their 2026 FIFA World Cup ticket search by securing a dominant victory over Chad with a final score of 3-1 in a thrilling qualifier match held at the Stade 26 Mars on Friday, November 17.
The exceptional skill and teamwork displayed throughout the match by the Eagles ultimately landed them a well-deserved win to go second on the Group I table.
From the very beginning, both teams exhibited intense determination and enthusiasm, fully aware of the significance of this crucial qualifier match. The atmosphere was electric, with passionate fans filling the stadium, cheering their respective teams on.
Mali’s first breakthrough came in the 45th minute, when their talented forward, Doumbia, unleashed a powerful strike that found the back of the net. The crowd erupted in celebration as Mali took the lead just before halftime. This goal provided a much-needed boost for the home team, injecting them with confidence as they headed into the break.
The second half began with renewed energy as Chad sought to equalise and regain control of the game. Their efforts were rewarded in the 53rd minute when Mouandilmadji seized an opportunity and managed to score a consolation goal for his team, narrowing the gap between the two sides.
However, Mali’s determination remained unshaken, and they continued to press forward in search of further goals. In the 77th minute, Niakate brilliantly found the back of the net, restoring Mali’s lead and sending the fans into wild celebrations once again.
Not content with just a two-goal advantage, Mali intensified their attacks, with Sissoko adding to their tally in the 81st minute. His precise finish saw the ball sail past Chad’s goalkeeper, extending Mali’s lead and securing their victory.
Throughout the match, both teams exhibited remarkable skill, displaying their ability to create scoring opportunities. However, it was Mali’s clinical finishing and superior teamwork that proved decisive, ultimately determining the outcome of the game.
As the final whistle blew, Mali stood tall with their heads held high, having accomplished a vital victory in their quest for World Cup qualification. The players embraced each other in celebration, acknowledging the hard-fought battle they had just overcome.
This memorable match served as a reminder of how tough these qualifying matches are, where nations come together, fueled by fierce competition, aiming to represent their continent on the grandest stage of world football.
For Mali, this victory provides a valuable boost in their journey towards securing a spot in the prestigious World Cup tournament. Their performance in this match sends a strong message to their competitors, reaffirming their status as a formidable force on the international stage.
After Matchday 1, Comoros tops the table after beating the CAR by 4-2, while Mali stays at the second position, followed by Ghana
Group I standings:
| Position | Teams | Matches | Won | Drawn | Lost | GF | GA | GD | Points |
| 1 | Comoros | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 4 | 2 | 2 | 3 |
| 2 | Mali | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 1 | 2 | 3 |
| 3 | Ghana | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 3 |
| 4 | Madagascar | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | -1 | 0 |
| 5 | Central African Republic | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 4 | -2 | 0 |
| 6 | Chad | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 3 | -2 | 0 |