Mali head coach Tom Saintfiet has questioned the fairness of officiating in his side’s 1-0 defeat to Ghana in Monday’s World Cup qualifier in Accra.
The Belgian trainer claimed his players believed there was a fault in Ghana’s only goal and suggested the Black Stars enjoyed an unfair advantage on the night.
“My team told me there was a fault with Ghana’s goal,” Saintfiet said after the game. “After Ghana’s goal, Mali was the only team on the pitch. Ghana didn’t play with 11 or 12 players, they played with 13.”
Ghana secured victory thanks to a second half strike from Alexander Djiku, moving three points clear at the top of Group I. The result restored confidence after their earlier draw with Chad and kept their World Cup dream firmly on track.
Mali, meanwhile, were left frustrated as they struggled to make their dominance count, particularly after falling behind. Despite creating chances, they could not find a way past Ghana’s resolute defence and goalkeeper Benjamin Asare.
While Saintfiet voiced his grievances, Ghana head coach Otto Addo hailed his side’s resilience, praising their ability to withstand pressure and take the opportunity.
The win leaves Ghana in pole position in Group I, while Mali face an uphill task if they are to keep their World Cup hopes alive.
