Mali vs Cape Verde Islands — match summary
Africa · Africa Cup of Nations Qualifications · kick-off 26 Sept 2026 02:00
Full time · score 3-1
pPS pre-match readiness (0-100): Mali 75 · Cape Verde Islands 42
mPS in-play performance (0-100): Mali 59 · Cape Verde Islands 18
Shots on target 7-2 · corners 4-1 · possession 55-45
NextGOAL tip: Cape Verde Islands +0.5 · 2 stars
In this Africa Cup of Nations Qualifications continental cup clash, Mali enter the pitch having just suffered a 0-2 friendly defeat, while Cape Verde Islands come off a 1-1 draw in World Cup qualifying, creating a clear contrast in confidence heading into the match. Mali are struggling with a blunt attack, winless in 5 consecutive matches across all competitions and averaging just 4 shots on target per game. On the other hand, Cape Verde Islands have been solid and are unbeaten in their last 5 matches; although heavily skewed toward draws, their defensive structure remains durable. The game is likely to start cautiously, with the first 45 minutes focused on feeling each other out and shutting down space, before opening up in the second half as tactical adjustments are made. However, the visitors' discipline should see this one end in a share of the points.