Mali-Côte d'Ivoire has in fact too often turned to the advantage of the Ivorians. Since their first meeting in 1965, Mali has lost 19 times, for only 4 victories and 9 draws.
Amadou Pathé Diallo, former Malian international, ex-assistant coach of the selection, was also a victim of “fate” “Even in the time of Salif Keïta, Mali did not beat Ivory Coast,” he says.