Cote D’Ivoire Vs. Mali, 2012 Africa Cup Of Nations: Lineups

Cote D’Ivoire have looked untouchable thus far in the Africa Cup of Nations and are heavy favorites to defeat Mali, but they’re up against a formidable opponent. Ghana’s upset earlier in the day showed that no one is actually untouchable, and Mali have enough talent to defeat them. Seydou Keita looks like a top player as always, and Cheick Diabate is a monster of a man who can score with his head at any time. This could be a 4-4-2 with Keita pushed wide or a 4-2-3-1 with Mustapha Yatabare pushed wide. In any event, someone will play out of their natural position. Cote D’Ivoire has set up as expected in a 4-3-3 with Solomon Kalou and Gervinho flanking Didier Drogba.

Cote D’Ivoire Lineup (4-3-3): Barry; Tiene, Kolo Toure, Bamba, Gosso; Gosso, Tiote, Yaya Toure; Gervinho, Kalou, Drogba

Mali Lineup (4-4-2): So. Diakite; D. Diakite, Kante, Berthe, Tamboura; B. Traore, Sa. Diakite, Sow, Keita; Yatabare, Diabate

Kickoff is at 2:00 p.m. ET, 8:00 p.m. local time.