All You Need to Know About the Madagascar vs Mali Clash in the World Cup Qualifiers

The stage is set at the iconic Stade du 26 Mars in Bamako, where Mali will host Madagascar this Sunday evening in a decisive Group I showdown of the African qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The atmosphere is expected to be electric, as both teams step onto the pitch knowing that every pass, tackle, and goal could determine their World Cup fate.

A Battle of Hope and Determination

For Madagascar, this is more than just another qualifier — it’s a do-or-die encounter. The Barea are clinging to their dream of reaching the World Cup for the first time in history. To keep that dream alive, they must defeat Mali on their home turf and hope for a slip-up from Ghana’s Black Stars in their match against Comoros. The challenge is steep, but in football, surprises are never off the table. After all, who can forget how underdogs have risen to the occasion time and again on the African stage?

Meanwhile, Mali finds itself in a position where pride and persistence intersect. Sitting third in the standings, the Eagles are still mathematically in the race but will need both a win and a touch of luck from other results to revive their qualification hopes. Playing at home, in front of thousands of passionate supporters in Bamako, could give them the emotional push they need to deliver a powerful performance.

As it stands, Ghana leads the group with 22 points, followed by Madagascar with 19 points. Mali and Comoros share the third spot, each with 15 points. The Central African Republic sits fifth with 5 points, while Chad anchors the table with just one point.

This tight race means that Sunday’s fixtures could completely reshape the group. A single goal, a single mistake — everything matters now.

Match Date and Kickoff Time

The Mali vs Madagascar encounter will take place on Sunday, October 12, 2025, at the Stade du 26 Mars in Bamako, with kickoff scheduled for 19:00 GMT. Fans across Africa and beyond will have their eyes glued to this crucial match.

Where to Watch Mali vs Madagascar

Football fans won’t miss a moment of the drama, as the game will be broadcast live on beIN Sports across the Middle East and North Africa, and on CANAL+ Afrique and SuperSport for audiences across the African continent.

Additionally, viewers in France can catch the action live on L’Équipe Live Foot, while the global audience can stream the match on FIFA+. The match will also be available on Shahid, offering convenient access for fans following the qualifiers online.

Whether you prefer traditional TV or streaming platforms, there’s no shortage of ways to experience this African showdown live.

Head-to-Head History: Mali vs Madagascar

Historically, these two nations have crossed paths only twice in official competitions. Their first meeting dates back to April 26, 2003, when Mali earned a comfortable 2-0 victory in a friendly encounter. Their second clash came much later, during the 2026 World Cup qualifiers on June 11, 2024, where both sides battled to a goalless draw (0-0).

Though limited, their head-to-head record suggests that Mali holds a slight edge — yet recent performances from Madagascar prove that they’re no longer a team to be underestimated.

As kickoff approaches, one question dominates every fan’s mind: who will keep their World Cup hopes alive? Mali has the experience, home advantage, and a point to prove, while Madagascar carries the hunger, belief, and nothing to lose.

This match isn’t just about qualifying — it’s about pride, identity, and the relentless spirit of African football. Expect intensity, emotion, and perhaps a few twists that remind us why the World Cup qualifiers are among the most captivating spectacles in global sport.

So, clear your evening, tune in, and witness the drama unfold — Mali vs Madagascar promises to deliver football at its finest.