The Mali national team’s head coach, Eric Chelle, is excited about the chance to face Burkina Faso as they look to advance to the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Cote d’Ivoire 2023 quarterfinals.

On Tuesday, January 30, the Eagles play their high-stakes TotalEnergies CAF AFCON round of 16 match against Burkina Faso, a country that is just 650 kilometres away from them.

This match will be the final one to be played at Korhogo’s Amadou Gon Coulibaly Stadium.

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Expectedly, the stadium will be filled to capacity as both countries compete for the title of best and, naturally, a spot in the quarterfinals.

Mali has never experienced continental triumph, although they came dangerously close in 1972 with their 3-2 loss to Congo in the final.

Chelle will be looking to lead Mali to the next round of the knockouts and possibly all the way.

“Of course, it’s a game with neighboring countries just like we have seen in other matches however, this one is more special because it is the knockout.

“These are always interesting games to play and must be approached with caution and of course a bit of confidence,” said Chelle.

The 46-year-old coach, who was born in Cote d’Ivoire, discussed the opposition’s possibilities against them and stated that they would be guaranteed a fine game of open football because the Stallions share their style of play and love to keep the ball.

“They play good football. The coach is experienced and is able to engage his team.

“It’s a pleasure playing against our neighbours, and we look forward to a good game as both teams that enjoy keeping the ball”, concluded the coach.

Kick-off on Tuesday, is at 20h00 GMT.