CAN 2025: "Don't forget that we are Mali," says Mamadou Sangaré | OneFootball

Mamadou Sangaré

Speaking to RFI in a recent interview, Mamadou Sangaré sent a warning shot to Africa's football giants less than a week before the start of CAN 2025.

Next Sunday, CAN 2025 kicks off in Morocco. Regarded as one of the best midfielders in France's Ligue 1, Racing Club de Lens player Mamadou Sangaré is brimming with confidence as he prepares to compete with Mali in the continental showdown. For him, this first appearance at the Africa Cup of Nations is the fulfillment of a childhood dream.

"Exactly, and I can't wait. It's a dream come true. Ever since I was a kid, we'd watch CAN together as a family. When you get the chance to play in it, it's something incredible. For me, it's going to be an extraordinary moment." he began, before talking about the Malian squad. "The spirit is really good, just like in the entire team. The atmosphere in the national team is excellent. Everyone is focused, we know what we have to do. We often talk about the goal we've set. We hope to go to Morocco and achieve something big, to make the Malian people proud." Mamadou Sangaré added.

When asked about the favorites to win CAN 2025, Mamadou Sangaré replied: "When you play in a tournament, it's to win it. Of course, we are also among the favorites. Don't forget that we are Mali. We have great players and a very strong squad. I have full confidence in our group and I know we can achieve something extraordinary."