The group stages of the Africa Cup of Nations concludes on Wednesday evening when Group D draws to a close with one final spot in the quarter finals to be determined.
We already know that Ghana are through come what may while Egypt are in pole position to join them in the next round. Mali will be hunting any slip ups but Uganda know their fate in the competition has already been sealed.
Ghana vs Egypt
Ghana are already through courtesy of a pair of 1-0 wins in the tournament thus far and a draw will see them top the group. Egypt need just a draw from this match to guarantee their qualification into the last eight.
The conspiracy theorists can get all over this one. A draw absolutely suits both sides and that hasn’t been lost on the bookmakers who no bigger than even money the draw and it is heavily odds on in places.
I personally don’t see any other outcome but Ghana could rest everyone with their qualification secured so that could open up a route for an Egypt win. I’m not one for backing draws especially at low prices and although there is a map for an Egypt win I’m not confident enough to take that so I’ll leave this one alone.
Uganda vs Mali
Mali have to win this match and hope that Egypt lose to Ghana in order for them to make it into the knockout stages but I would imagine even the most patriotic Malian would know that is unlikely though. Uganda are already out which could free them up.
I’ve mentioned all week how the minnows have struggled in this tournament the longer it has gone on and nothing has changed in that regard. I’m not expecting it to change here either and I see Mali as good things in this one.
Their enthusiasm will need to be managed well but I think they are the better side here and against a Uganda who looked to be tiring in their last match the better side can come through here even if it isn’t enough to send them into the quarter finals.
Tips
Back Mali to beat Uganda for a 5/10 stake at 1.70 with William Hill
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