Mali parts ways with Belgian coach after World Cup setback
The Mali national football team has officially ended its collaboration with head coach Tom Saintfiet, a Belgian tactician who took charge in August 2024. The decision comes after the team failed to secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and was eliminated in the quarterfinals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations by Senegal.
Femafoot expresses gratitude to departing coach
Mahazou Cisset, the newly elected president of the Malian Football Federation (Femafoot), issued a statement on social media paying tribute to Saintfiet’s contributions. In his message, Cisset highlighted the coach’s unwavering commitment, professionalism, and dedication during his tenure, noting how he maintained team cohesion and upheld the dignity of the Aigles du Mali (Mali’s national team) despite challenging circumstances.
« During your time with us, you demonstrated constant dedication, exemplary professionalism, and remarkable determination in fulfilling your mission. Even in a demanding environment, you successfully preserved team unity, structured technical work, and carried the colors of the Aigles du Mali with pride. »
Search for a new coach underway
The Malian Football Federation has launched a call for applications to fill the vacant head coach position. Interested candidates have until May 10 to submit their applications and supporting documents.
Key takeaways
- Tom Saintfiet’s tenure as Mali’s coach concluded after failing to qualify for the 2026 World Cup and exiting early in the 2025 CAN.
- Mahazou Cisset, Femafoot’s new president, publicly acknowledged the coach’s efforts in a formal statement.
- The federation is actively seeking a replacement, with a deadline set for May 10 for applications.
