Prediction Ghana vs Mali 2026 – Betting Tips for the CAF World Cup Qualifiers on 08/09/2025

Preview: Group leaders meet a red-hot challenger

Ghana arrives at this fixture sitting top of the group and carrying the badge of consistency across the campaign, but the feel ahead of the September clash is that Mali could be the sharper side right now. Ghana’s group ledger — five wins, one draw, one loss and 16 goals scored — paints a team that has largely controlled its destiny in qualifying. Yet recent results expose vulnerability: a 1-1 draw with Chad on September 4 and a mixed string of results through the spring mean they arrive without absolute momentum.

Mali, in contrast, have shown a real upturn. Third in the group but only four points shy of Ghana, Mali bring an impressive run to the capital — six wins, three draws and a single defeat across the latest run — and a convincing 3-0 victory over Comoros on the same September matchday. The numbers behind the performances underline a side that is aggressive and efficient in the final third: higher averages in total shots, shots on target and dangerous attacks point to a team willing to press and create consistently.

Tactical edge and recent history

Ghana’s attacking output across the group has been healthy — 16 goals from seven matches — and they benefit from home familiarity even though the official venue details are not provided. Their defensive record, however, has not been beyond reproach, with six goals conceded, and recent form shows draws and dropped points that could make them susceptible against a rampaging Mali front line.

Mali’s defensive compactness is a notable feature as well: four goals conceded and four clean sheets in the campaign suggest a balanced unit that can frustrate opponents and spring efficient counterplay. The head-to-head memory also tilts interest toward Mali; their 2-1 win over Ghana in the previous qualifier meeting remains a recent reminder that this fixture can swing away from the nominal home favorite.

Match outlook

Expect a tense, edge-of-the-seat encounter where Mali’s attacking metrics — more shots, more dangerous attacks, strong corners average — could unsettle Ghana’s defense. Ghana will look to control possession and exploit moments on the break, but Mali arrive with confidence, sharper finishing in recent games and a defensive shape that can blunt a homegrown surge.

Betting suggestion: 1X2 market — Back Mali to win. Based on Mali’s superior recent form, higher attacking activity and a convincing 3-0 victory in their latest outing versus Ghana’s draw against Chad, the data support an away win as the best single-market selection.