Friendlies: Mali squad list for the DR Congo

Mali head coach Tom Saintfiet has unveiled his 23-man squad to face the Democratic Republic of Congo in a friendly match scheduled for June 5 at the Stade de la Source in Orléans. The squad features a significant overhaul, with many regulars missing and a few notable surprises.

No fewer than twelve players who were called up for the March camp have been left out this time. Among them are key figures such as El Bilal Touré, Ibrahima Koné, Mohamed Camara, and Mamadou Fofana.

Goalkeeper Youssouf Koïta makes way for Lassine Diarra (22), a young shot-stopper from Lyon's reserves. Notably, this is also the sixth consecutive absence for former captain Hamari Traoré.

Several new faces join the Eagles' nest

Several newcomers will experience the national team setup for the first time, including Woyo Coulibaly (Leicester), Kalidou Sidibé (Guingamp), Gaoussou Diarra (Istanbulspor), and Mahamadou Doumbia (Royal Antwerp).

Central defender Check Keita returns after missing the last three call-ups, hoping to finally earn his first cap.

Among the few regulars, captain Yves Bissouma, along with Sikou Niakaté and Kamory Doumbia, will look to guide this youthful squad during this friendly test.

Below is the full list of selected players:

Amine Jomni |

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African football writer and sports journalist covering football news, stories and insights while sharing his expertise with fans across the continent.