After a traumatic number of days the African Cup of Nations kicks off in Luanda this evening with the validity of the competition still under the microscope after an organised ambush on Togolese players. Hosts, Angola, take on Mali in what could well prove a decisive fixture in who progre ses to the knockout phase. However, fatal events off the park have added enhanced significance Dennis Schroder Jersey to security and affected the glamour of Angolas inaugural hosting of the event.Prior to the attack on the Togolese, Mali would have viewed this as a crucial encounter in which to secure at least a point in their bid to seal a quarter final berth. That target may still be in place, but what will certainly Andre Roberson Jersey have been affected is the psychology of both sets of players and how they view the importance of playing football.Turning to matters on the pitch and Mali coach, Stephen Keshi, has been talking the talk about his team making a big impre sion, My only fear now is injury worries, otherwise we are set. I can beat my chest and say we can play in the final. We are going to Angola to prove our mettle and all things being equal we shall go far, he said.Of those injury concerns, only Seydou Keita is a doubt for the match with Angola. The Barcelona man has failed to feature in any of Malis build-up games with a Deonte Burton Jersey thigh injury and his absence would be a major blow tothe Eagleshopes. Likewise, Angola have worries over their talismanic forward, Flavio, who suffered a leg injury in last weekends 1-1 draw with Gambia.Injuries aside, this match offers a fascinating prospect with an outcome that is very difficult to predict. A Malian team filled with talent that notoriously fails to blo som versus Aleksej Pokusevski Jersey a workmanlike Angolan side with an expectant nation in their corner. Malis form wasuninspiring in qualification. Finishing third in a four team group, they never threatened World Cup qualification (which was combined with CAN qualifying).Angola on the other hand have a new manager in Manuel Jose. The Portuguese man is viewed as one of the best coaches in African history after his exploits with Al-Ahly. In his 11 non-competitive matches so far they have a record of W2-D7-L2. Weak in the box they will rely on Gilberto to provide fire power for Flavio (if fit). Keita: injury doubtThis match has even got the bookies scratching their head as they make Angola very slight favourites at 11/8. However, the unexpected and unwanted events leading up to thisgame have changed the dynamics. The goodne s has been removed from what had supposed to have been an Angolan celebration of football. With their country open to ridicule it would be surprising if the negativity has not taken its toll on the players. These factors may manifest themselves on the pitch and, in Kanoute, Mali have the perfect player Darius Bazley Jersey to take advantage.Prediction: Angola 0 Mali 2
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