The Cranes are making their return to the competition since losing in the final match to Ghana in 1978. While Ghana edge the head-to-head, Mali have shown in recent years that they can match their more accomplished opponents with grit and skill. “Everyone thinks Egypt and Ghana are the favorites of our group, and Mali an outsider. Ghana need to start well against Uganda before they meet a determined Mali side that will be tough to push aside ahead of their final group game against Egypt. With the Black Stars struggling to find scoring form in recent internationals, there will be no walk overs in Gabon.

Source: GhanaWeb January 16, 2017 19:20 UTC