World Cup 2026 (Q): Mali's squad list without captain Hamari Traoré

This Saturday, Mali's coach, Tom Saintfiet, unveiled his list of 26 players called up for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The Eagles will clash with Comoros and Central Africa on March 20 and 24 during the fifth and sixth days of qualification.

Currently fourth in Group I with 5 points, Mali trails four points behind co-leaders Comoros and Ghana. The goal will be to close this gap to hope for one of the two qualifying spots.

Notable absences

Thus, several key players will be missing. Captain Hamari Traoré, 33, although back from injury, is not included in the squad.

The same goes for the experienced defensive rock Kiki Kouyaté and the talented RB Leipzig maestro Amadou Haïdara.

Lassine Sinayoko is excluded for the second time in a row. Massadio Haïdara, performing well with Brest, must also wait longer.

New faces and returns

It's worth noting that the Eagles' nest includes some surprises. The giant from Levski Sofia, Mustapha Sangaré (1.97m), earns his first call-up in the attack. Youngsters Mamadou Camara (24 years old) and Salim Diakité (24 years old) also rejoin the squad.

Among the key players, Yves Bissouma, Nene Dorgeles, and El Bilal Touré are present.

Below is the list of players called up:

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.