By Kazeem Ajibola Shoyebo
Mali’s Ministry of Sports has requested the dismissal of national team head coach Tom Saintfiet after reportedly concluding that he failed to meet key performance expectations tied to the country’s recent and upcoming international campaigns.
According to reports from Malian football circles, the ministry had set clear objectives for the Belgian tactician, including qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, reaching at least the final of that tournament, securing qualification for the next FIFA World Cup, and advancing to at least the Round of 32 at the global competition.
The ministry’s position reflects growing pressure within Malian football following mixed results and concerns over whether the national team is progressing sufficiently to compete with Africa’s elite and on the world stage.
Saintfiet, who previously managed several African national teams before taking charge of Mali, was appointed with a mandate to build on the nation’s strong talent pool and deliver major tournament success.
His tenure has been closely monitored by government authorities and the football federation, particularly given Mali’s ambitions to establish itself as a continental powerhouse and achieve historic milestones at the World Cup.
The situation now leaves uncertainty over the immediate future of the national team’s technical leadership, with a final decision expected following consultations between the federation and relevant stakeholders.
Mali are preparing for crucial upcoming fixtures, and any coaching change could significantly impact their preparations for major international competitions.
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