2023 AFCON Betting Tips: Tunisia vs Mali
The 2023 Africa Cup of Nations roars on, and on Saturday, we witness a mouthwatering clash between two giants of African football: Tunisia and Mali. Both teams boast rich histories, passionate fans, and fierce ambitions for continental glory. But there’s more at stake in this Group E showdown than just pride.
Tunisia, licking their wounds after a shock opening loss, desperately need a win to stay alive in the competition. Mali, riding a wave of momentum after their impressive win on Matchday 1, seek to solidify their position at the top of the table. Let’s explore the matchups and uncover the betting opportunities that lie in wait.
Tunisia: Finding Redemption, Battling History
The Carthage Eagles of Tunisia soar into this match wounded. Their opening 1-0 defeat to minnows Namibia sent shockwaves through the team and their fans. Now, they face the daunting task of overcoming Mali, a team that has held them captive in the AFCON group stages for three consecutive tournaments. The stats don’t make for good reading for the North Africans: two losses and a draw in those encounters, with Mali topping the group in both 2019 and 2022. History whispers caution, but Tunisia can’t afford to listen. They need points, and they need them fast.
Head coach Jalel Kadri is expected to unleash an attacking formation, desperate to claw their way back into contention. Tunisia have never lost their opening two matches in the AFCON, and their record on Matchday 2 is impressive (7 wins and 2 draws in the last 10 tournaments). This could be the match where their pedigree shines through.
Mali: Confidence Powered by Youth
The Eagles of Mali enter this clash with their wings clipped by the unfortunate news of Yves Bissouma and Moussa Diarra’s illnesses. However, their talons remain sharp. Their dominant opening win over South Africa showcased a potent blend of experience and youthful exuberance. This team is riding a nine-game unbeaten streak, and their recent success at the U17 and U20 World Cups speaks volumes about their talent pipeline.
Head Coach Eric Shell has built a well-oiled machine, adept at stifling opponents and capitalising on counter-attacks. Playing in West Africa could be an intangible asset for Mali. Their familiarity with the climate, terrain, and even the local crowds could give them a slight edge, potentially influencing the outcome of the match.
Team News
Mali’s midfield has been struck by malaria, with key players Yves Bissouma and Moussa Diarra testing positive for the illness. Bissouma, who started Mali’s 2-0 win over South Africa, was forced off early with symptoms. Diarra, of Toulouse, missed their opening game with the mosquito-borne disease.
Bissouma is, however, reportedly responding well to treatment and could be available for Saturday’s crucial clash against Tunisia. His absence would undoubtedly weaken Mali’s midfield, but the likes of Adama Traore and Amadou Haidara are ready to step up.
Tunisia, meanwhile, have a fully fit squad at their disposal, giving Kadri the luxury of fielding his strongest XI.
Tactically, expect a fascinating battle between two contrasting styles. Tunisia, with their backs against the wall, will likely press high and try to force mistakes from the young Mali backline. Mali, on the other hand, will look to counter-attack with pace and precision, exploiting the gaps left by Tunisia’s attacking forays.
Betting Tip: Over 2.5 Goals
20/01 21:00 Tunisia – Mali Over 2.5 Goals @ 2.75 (Betking)
While history and head-to-head records favour Mali, Tunisia’s desperation to stay alive will clash head-on with the West Africans’ confidence and attacking flair. Both teams have the attacking talent to hurt each other, and the potential for goals is immense. Add to that the tactical adjustments and the pressure of the occasion, and you have a recipe for an open, entertaining match.
Therefore, our betting tip is Over 2.5 Goals at excellent odds of 2.75 on Betking. Here’s why:
- Tunisia’s desperation: They need a win to stay in the competition, and that will force them to take risks and push forward.
- Mali’s attacking philosophy: Shell’s men won’t sit back and defend. They’ll look to exploit the spaces left by Tunisia’s attacking forays.
- The pressure of the occasion: Both teams have a lot at stake, which could lead to mistakes and lapses in concentration, opening up scoring opportunities.
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