Mali head coach Tom Saintfiet has admitted that his side must tread carefully when they face Ghana in Monday’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at the Accra Sports Stadium.

The Belgian tactician, known for his tactical discipline, openly acknowledged the threat posed by the Black Stars’ stacked attacking unit. With names like Jordan Ayew, Mohammed Kudus, Antoine Semenyo, Kamaldeen Sulemana, Inaki Williams, and the promising Ibrahim Osman, Saintfiet believes Ghana’s forward line has enough firepower to cause chaos at any moment.

“Look at the players Ghana have — top-level footballers in Europe. Even with some not selected, the squad is still very strong. Mostly offensive, so much quality. You focus on one, and two or three others can punish you. There’s youth, but also experienced strikers who can make the difference,” Saintfiet told reporters.

Ghana currently sit on top of Group I with 16 points from seven games, edging Comoros by one, Madagascar by three, and Saintfiet’s Mali by four. With just three matches left to play, Monday night’s showdown in Accra could become a defining moment in the race for a World Cup ticket.

For Saintfiet, the challenge is clear: contain Ghana’s firepower or risk being left behind in the qualification chase.