Traore tips Mali for African title

Hamidou Traoré, the man who was hugely instrumental in Mali’s Junior Eagles’ success against the Amajita of South Africa, is optimistic that his team are no longer underdogs of the tournament but now favourites.

“When we arrived in Senegal, we attracted little attention. Journalists were not even coming to our press conferences. Our team did not matter much, but right now I can confirm to you that there are many knocks on the door,” Traore told Supersports.com

With South Africa hoping to revive their campaign after a botched opener against Ghana 2-0, the 18-year-old winger of Club Olympique de Bamako said they were expecting to face a strong opposition on Thursday.

Mali have qualified for the semi-finals of the African U-20 Championship in Senegal and also for the 2015 FIFA U-20 World Cup in New Zealand after seeing off South Africa challenge in Group B last  Thursday in M'Bour.

“Everybody knows it is difficult to play a team that is on the verge of elimination. And so we had prepared to confront a very tenacious side. The game was not an easy one, but I believe better experience and a stronger determination gave us an edge.”

Nigeria and Ghana have been traditional top favourites and are currently maintaining that status after recording two wins each from their two games. However, Traore believes Mali should now be added to the two-team list.

“We have gradually become a team to beat at the tournament alongside Nigeria and Ghana. We are no longer settling for less but looking forward to winning the title,” he said.