Mali head coach Tom Saintfiet has questioned the legitimacy of Ghana’s winning goal in their 1-0 defeat in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier in Accra, insisting the Black Stars benefited from the absence of VAR.
“Had VAR been used, Alexander Djiku’s goal would have been ruled out,” Saintfiet told Adom TV after the game.
The result leaves Ghana top of Group I, while Mali now face the challenge of securing qualification through the remaining fixtures. Despite the setback, Saintfiet vowed that his side would not give up on their World Cup dream.
“Qualifying for the 2026 World Cup will be tough, but we will fight to win our remaining games,” he said.
The Belgian tactician, who previously guided The Gambia to back-to-back AFCON appearances, stressed that Ghana’s standing in African football remains undisputed despite their recent struggles.
“Ghana will always be a giant in African and international football. Failing to qualify for AFCON doesn’t change that,” he added.
Saintfiet, who was interviewed for the Black Stars coaching role before Otto Addo was appointed, also revealed he would gladly work alongside the current Ghana coach in the future.
Mali’s defeat leaves them under pressure, but with playoff spots still available, their World Cup hopes remain alive.
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