Mali face a tough task to qualify for the quarter-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations as they face a must-win game against Uganda on Wednesday.

Kick off time is 2200hrs (EAT)

The Eagles of Mali have to beat Uganda and hope Egypt lose to Ghana in the other Group D match, though their failure to score so far means a much-improved display is needed.

Mali’s hopes may be boosted by the fact that their opponents are already out of the competition, but coach Milutin Sredojevic insists his Ugandan side will be fighting for pride in their final match at the tournament.

Eliminated from the Nations Cup in 2005 after a drawing of lots with Guinea in Malabo,Eagles may find themselves in the same position this time round.

Mali Alain Giresse fully understands that his team faces elimination from the AFCON in the group stage but he remains positive.

“Every coach has his share of responsibility for this result. It is true that we did not perform in the first half,” said Giresse after the defeat to Ghana.

“I assume responsibility for the first half. Just as I also assume responsibility for second half, thanks to the changes made and which could have allowed us to return to score in this meeting.

“Indeed, realism and efficiency have been lacking on these first two matches, especially today.”

In their first match in Gabon they drew 0-0 with Egypt and lost to Ghana and this may find them ending up in the same point and same goal diffrence and according to the competition rules drawing of lots may be done again.

But Uganda Cranes are much inspired to go for a win even if they have been eliminated.

“When we came here, we knew that we had to play three cup finals. We lost the first cup final with a penalty against Ghana, lost the second cup final against Egypt in the last minute. But our ambition remains that we want to go home with an element of pride and to win the game against Mali,” said coach Micho.

Uganda performance in the two matches was impressive with high defensive quality,commitment and organization.

Their displays proved that they have signifiantly reduced the gap between them and the top African football giants.

Head-to-Head – Uganda v Mali
Uganda FIFA ranking: 73
Mali FIFA ranking:        64
Matches played:               2
Uganda wins:                     0
Mali wins:                            1
Draws:                                  1
Uganda goals scored:       3
Mali goals scored:             7