Mali overcame a spirited challenge from Chad to win 3-1 in their opening 2026 World Cup qualifier on November 18, 2023. The Eagles secured a home victory in this Group I match, but were made to work hard for the three points by their determined opponents. Mali took an early lead, but Chad stunned the home crowd by equalizing before halftime. The second half saw Mali increase their intensity, and their superior quality eventually told as they scored two more goals to secure the win. The result puts Mali at the top of the early group standings alongside Ghana, who also won. While the performance was not entirely convincing, the ability to grind out a result is a positive sign for Mali's qualification hopes. Chad's competitive display will give them confidence for future matches.