In the wake of losing to Ghana and drawing with Madagascar, head coach of Mali’s National Men’s Football Team, Eric Chelle, has been sacked.
Mali lost 2-1 at home in Bamako to the Black Stars on June 6 and followed it up with a goalless draw away from home against Madagascar on June 10 with the home side playing significant minutes with 10 men.
His dismissal comes at a time Mali rank fourth in Group I standings with five points and trail group leaders Comoros by five points.
Prior to the double header against Ghana and Madagascar in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, Mali drew 1-1 with Central African Republic also in Bamako. Only the group winner progresses automatically to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Chelle became an internet sensation when one of his assistant coaches was captured pouring water on his head after Mali blew a huge opportunity to beat Cote D’Ivoire and progress to the semifinals at the 2023 AFCON. (Click highlighted text to read full story)
He later revealed that Mali’s shock 2-1 loss after extra time got him feeling dizzy.
