Since August 2024, Belgian coach Tom Saintfiet has been managing Mali’s national soccer team. On Friday, November 15, the coach of the Eagles had to prepare his players for a crucial match to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The game was held under stressful and tense circumstances due to urban violence in Maputo, the capital of Mozambique. "We received videos on match day showing burning barricades in the city… For several days, we had been requesting the match be moved to a neutral venue or played behind closed doors," explained Saintfiet. These requests went unanswered by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), forcing the former Gambia coach to prepare his players amidst this "anxiety-filled" atmosphere. How did he manage? "It’s important to inform the players about the situation, remind them that we are safe, and quickly refocus on our objectives and on soccer," explained the experienced tactician. "Even if the game preparation changes—like not being able to take the usual pregame walk around the hotel—we are professionals and need to stay united throughout these challenges, which unfortunately are common in Africa. The country must rise above everything else." This message resonated with teammates of Brest midfielder Kamory Doumbia, who secured a calm and controlled 1-0 victory and clinched their qualification for AFCON. This achievement was described as Saintfiet’s "greatest pride."
Safety and anxiety: Saintfiet's advice
Brief