{"id":1422637,"date":"2026-01-07T09:50:14","date_gmt":"2026-01-07T09:50:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.squawka.com\/en\/?post_type=news&p=1422637"},"modified":"2026-01-07T09:50:15","modified_gmt":"2026-01-07T09:50:15","slug":"match-preview-mali-vs-senegal-09-01-26-afcon","status":"publish","type":"news","link":"https:\/\/www.squawka.com\/en\/news\/match-preview-mali-vs-senegal-09-01-26-afcon\/","title":{"rendered":"Mali vs Senegal: predictions, stats, tips, betting offers & odds"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Senegal and Mali square off at the Stade Ibn Batouta on 9 January in a high-stakes clash that will see the winner advance to the semi-final stage. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Senegal arrive as the team to beat, topping their group after an impressive unbeaten run, while Mali have reached this stage without winning a game in 90 minutes. With both sides boasting contrasting approaches and form, this fixture promises a fascinating tactical battle where Mali\u2019s defensive grit will be tested against Senegal\u2019s attacking prowess.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Best Bets & Predictions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Based on Senegal\u2019s dominance in possession, chance creation, and finishing, our strongest prediction is for Senegal to win inside 90 minutes. We\u2019re especially confident here given their superior xG, shooting accuracy, and clean sheet record. Below are our top three betting recommendations for this fixture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Our Prediction<\/th>\nOdds & Bookmaker<\/th>\nConfidence<\/th>\nWhy We’re Backing It<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
Senegal to Win<\/strong><\/td>\n8\/13 @ Bet365<\/a>
(61.9%)<\/td>\n		\u2b50\u2b50\u2b50\u2b50<\/td>\nBacking because Senegal have scored 10 in 4 games, Mali only 3. Clear edge in attack and ball control.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Under 2.5 Goals<\/strong><\/td>\n8\/15 @ Bet365<\/a>
(65.2%)<\/td>\n		\u2b50\u2b50\u2b50<\/td>\nValue here due to Mali\u2019s low scoring (3 in 4), plus strong Senegal defence (2 conceded).<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Odds correct at the time of writing. Please gamble responsibly.<\/small><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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    Season Form & Standings<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

    Senegal set the pace in Group D, winning two of their group games and securing a draw against DR Congo to top the group. Senegal only conceded one goal in the group stage and kept up their impressive form in the Round of 16 with a 3-1 victory over Sudan. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Mali’s route to the quarter-final has been a little different, with Les Aigles drawing all three of their group stage games. This was enough to see them through to the Round of 16, where they needed penalties to overcome Tunisia. Three of out Mali’s four games at AFCON 2025 have ended with a 1-1 scoreline. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Potential Match-Winners<\/h2>\n\n\n\n