Anthony Da Silva presents his roadmap for Mali’s national football team
Exactly one month after signing his contract, Anthony Da Silva held his first press conference in Bamako on July 6, 2026, outlining his vision for the Aigles. His plan centers on ambition, identity, and a commitment to excellence, aiming to build a competitive yet disciplined team.
The new head coach emphasized the importance of establishing a clear methodology and fostering a culture of high performance. « My goal is to bring joy to the Malian people, » he stated, acknowledging the challenges ahead while vowing to progress methodically.
Da Silva’s approach prioritizes three non-negotiable values: patriotism, discipline, and performance. These principles will guide player selection, regardless of whether athletes play in Mali or abroad. « The door remains open for all who meet these criteria, » he declared, stressing inclusivity within a structured framework.
A balanced yet demanding selection process
The coach envisions a team that combines talent from both local and international leagues, with no age restrictions. « From 17 to 35 years old, players who align with our standards will be considered, » he explained. On the pitch, the Aigles are expected to adopt an assertive style, controlling possession and dictating the game’s pace. « We must be the ones setting the tempo, » Da Silva insisted. He also aims for a more clinical finish in the final third, a weakness he believes has cost the team in recent years.
First major challenge: CAN 2027 qualifiers
The upcoming Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualifiers in September will serve as the team’s first major test. Mali faces a tough group featuring Cape Verde—recently unbeaten in regulation time against football powerhouses Spain, Uruguay, and Argentina—as well as Liberia and Rwanda. Success here will hinge on Da Silva’s ability to implement his philosophy swiftly.
The coach stressed the importance of collaboration with the Malian Football Federation and the national technical team. « This is a collective effort, » he noted, summarizing his approach with three core values: honesty, transparency, and relentless effort.
