Tom Saintfiet, head coach of the Mali national team, confirmed that facing the Moroccan team in the second round of the group stage of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations represents a tough test for his team, emphasizing his players' readiness to play the match with high spirit and full focus.

Saintfiet explained during the pre-match press conference that his team is entering the encounter under added pressure after the first match did not go as hoped, due to conceding a late goal against Zambia, noting that facing Morocco presents a bigger challenge given the strength of the opponent.

The Mali coach pointed out that the technical staff conducted a comprehensive study of the Moroccan team, including both the main squad and players who participated in previous tournaments such as the Arab Cup and the Olympics, affirming that the 'Atlas Lions' have distinguished players and a strong defensive organization that reflects clear technical work.

Saintfiet admitted that the Moroccan team is the favorite to win the match, but at the same time stressed his players' ambition to deliver a strong performance, saying that his team will enter the match with a high fighting spirit to demonstrate their true capabilities on the field.

The Mali national team is preparing to face their Moroccan counterparts on Friday evening in a highly anticipated match within the group stage, amid great public anticipation for what is considered one of the most prominent encounters of the second round in the continental tournament.