Mali’s head coach, Tom Saintfiet, has identified two minor environmental hurdles during his team’s campaign at the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. The 52-year-old Belgian tactician revealed that while his squad remains in high spirits, the fluctuating temperatures and persistent rain represent the only significant difficulties they have encountered since arriving for the tournament. Saintfiet emphasized that these meteorological factors remain entirely outside of the team’s influence, requiring the “Eagles” to adapt their physical preparation to the North African winter climate.
Despite these environmental concerns, Saintfiet offered glowing praise for the Moroccan authorities regarding the technical and logistical execution of the event. He specifically pointed to the host nation’s established expertise in managing elite international competitions, noting that the infrastructure provided for the participating nations meets the highest global standards. The Mali manager expressed deep satisfaction with the quality of the training facilities and the hospitality extended to his delegation since their arrival in December.
“It’s been a fantastic AFCON so far. I’ve always loved Morocco for its ability to organize major sporting events. It is a beautiful country with good hotels, magnificent stadiums and excellent pitches for training,” Saintfiet said via CAFOnline.
The former Gambia and Philippines coach also highlighted the vibrant atmosphere surrounding the tournament, commending the local population for their welcoming nature. He observed that the enthusiasm in the streets has contributed to a positive experience for his players, helping them maintain focus as they navigate the knockout rounds. Mali recently secured a place in the quarter-finals following a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Tunisia in Casablanca, a match played under the very rainy conditions Saintfiet mentioned.
“Overall, I am very pleased with this AFCON. The only small problem is the temperature and the rain, but that is beyond our control. I would say it is a very good AFCON, well organized, with a great atmosphere. The supporters are very positive in the streets,” he added.
Mali now prepares for a high-stakes quarter-final duel against the defending champions, Senegal, at the Stade Mohammed V this Friday evening. Saintfiet expects his team to overcome the local weather conditions and leverage the “magnificent” pitches he praised to execute their tactical game plan. A victory against the Teranga Lions would see Mali reach the semi-finals for the first time since 2013, moving them one step closer to their maiden continental title.
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