The Mali Football Federation is close to appointing a new head coach after parting ways with former coach Eric Chelle.
The Mali Football Federation (FEMAFOOT) are reportedly on the brink of securing former Democratic Republic of Congo coach Florent Ibenge to take over the national team.
Sources close to the federation suggest that the negotiations with Ibenge, who currently manages Sudanese powerhouse Al Hilal Omdurman, are nearing completion.
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Ibenge's potential appointment comes after Eric Chelle's recent dismissal, triggered by a disappointing goalless draw against a 10-man Madagascar in a crucial World Cup qualifier held in Johannesburg.
This result evidently did not meet FEMAFOOT's expectations, leading to Chelle’s exit earlier this month.
Eric Chelle, aged 46, who has a diverse heritage with roots in Ivory Coast, France, and Mali, has had a rich career both as a player and coach.
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Under his guidance, Mali reached the quarterfinals of the 2023 African Cup of Nations, but his tenure was cut short less than two years after his appointment in May 2022.
Florent Ibenge, known for his robust resume across African football, emerges as a seasoned candidate for the role.
His coaching stints include significant achievements such as leading Moroccan club RS Berkane to victories in the 2021 CAF Confederation Cup and the Moroccan Throne Cup during his time there.
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Before his Moroccan adventure, Ibenge made a profound impact at AS Vita Club of the Democratic Republic of Congo, steering them to two finals in CAF interclub competitions — the African Champions League in 2014 and the African Confederation Cup in 2018.
Moreover, Ibenge's tenure as the head coach of DR Congo is highlighted by winning the 2016 African Nations Championship and taking the national team to a third-place finish at the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations, marking their best performance in the tournament since 1998.
FEMAFOOT's choice to pursue Ibenge can be seen as a strategic move to inject new tactics and rejuvenate the national team with an experienced hand familiar with African football's intricacies.
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His track record of success in club and international football across the continent suggests that he might be the right fit to help the Eagles soar to new heights.
The official announcement is anticipated soon as the final discussions are expected to wrap up.
The Mali national team, rich with talent but struggling for consistency, awaits a revival under what could be a transformative leadership if Ibenge takes charge.
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His impending task will be to qualify and make a significant impact in the upcoming international competitions, including the World Cup qualifiers and the Africa Cup of Nations.