Mali coach Saintfiet open to working with Otto addo after World Cup qualifier clash

Mali head coach Tom Saintfiet says he would gladly work with Ghana boss Otto Addo despite their recent battle in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

The two managers went head-to-head in Accra earlier this month, with Addo’s Black Stars edging Mali 1-0 thanks to Alexander Djiku’s late winner. The result maintained Ghana at the top of Group I, while Saintfiet’s side must now pursue qualification through the playoffs.

Speaking to Adom TV, the Belgian coach praised Addo’s work and revealed he would be open to a collaboration in the future.

“I would be glad to work with Otto Addo in Black Stars’ coaching,” Saintfiet said.

Saintfiet, who previously led Gambia to back-to-back Africa Cup of Nations tournaments, was once a candidate for the Ghana role and held extended talks with the GFA before Addo’s appointment in 2024.

For now, the two remain rivals on the touchline, but Saintfiet’s comments suggest mutual respect between coaches with unfinished business in the World Cup race.

Send your news stories to [email protected] and via WhatsApp on +233 546310076.

Read Full Story