Mali Land in Ivory Coast in Style Ahead of 34th Africa Cup of Nations

• It seems Mali have outdone Ghana and Nigeria in the fashion department
• The Eagles landed in Ivory Coast in their colourful traditional wear ahead of the 2023 AFCON
• They are considered underdogs and could cause some problems for the big boys

Mali have touched down in Ivory Coast.

They were received by hundreds of Mali fans in the northern city of Korhogo shortly after they landed.

The Eagles are considered dark horses in the tournament due to their strong squad.

In a video posted online, Mali footballers and staff were welcomed by loud cheers from their fans as they made their way to their hotel. The fans whistled and clapped the players as they walked through.

The players were dressed in traditional regalia, something we've seen throughout this week. Ghana, Nigeria and Guinea stole the show this week with their stylish attires.

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Mali are in Group E alongside South Africa, 2004 champions Tunisia and Namibia.

Despite producing elite-level talent for many years, Mali has not managed to win an AFCON title. They have arguably the best midfield on the continent but are yet to capitalize on that. Tottenham Hotspur star Yves Bissouma and captain Hamari Traore.

Striker Ibrahima Koné will be sorely missed since he would've completed a stacked squad.

They were knocked out in the last 16 by Equatorial Guinea in the 2021 tournament, per Opta Analyst.

Best-dressed teams in Ivory Coast

Sports Brief earlier reported on the best-dressed teams in Ivory Coast. Teams have been making their way to Ivory Coast ahead of the tournament.

Ghana took the top spot after they wore their famous traditional Kente outfit over white shorts and shirts. The Super Eagles came second, and it seems rice isn't the only thing Nigeria and Ghana are fighting over.

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Guinea, Namibia and Senegal also made the list. The tournament kicks off on January 13.

AFCON 2023 Group E preview

Sports Brief earlier previewed the 2023 AFCON Group E, which has Mali, South Africa, Tunisia, and Namibia.

Mali has a great mix of flair, youth and experience to make it count, although questions remain about their ability to be consistent throughout a tournament.

They will be looking to right the wrongs of the 2021 edition.