Mali and Rwanda set for crucial CAN 2027 qualifying clash

Mali host Rwanda on Friday, 13 November 2026, in the third round of CAN 2027 qualifying, with both sides level on six points at the top of Group K.

The match gives Mali the opportunity to move clear at the summit in front of their home supporters. Rwanda, meanwhile, will attempt to maintain their unbeaten start and continue their strong progress in the group.

Mali’s head coach is expected to select a team built around several established players, including Hamari Traore, Aliou Dieng, Mamadou Sangare and Lassine Sinayoko.

Rwanda are also set to field a competitive side, with Djihad Bizimana likely to anchor the midfield and Innocent Nshuti leading the attack.

Probable Mali line-up

Djigui Diarra; Hamari Traore, Ousmane Camara, Souleymane Sagnan, Nathan Gassama; Aliou Dieng, Mahamadou Doumbia, Mamadou Sangare; Nene Dorgeles, Lassine Sinayoko, Gaoussou Diarra.

Probable Rwanda line-up

Fiacre Ntwari; Fitina Omborenga, Ange Mutsinzi, Thierry Manzi, Emmanuel Imanishimwe; Djihad Bizimana, Bonheur Mugisha, Steve Rubanguka, Gilbert Mugisha, Joy-Lance Mickels; Innocent Nshuti.