The Malian Football Federation (Femafoot) has appointed Tom Saintfiet as the new head coach of the national team just days before the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers begin. The decision follows the dismissal of Eric Chelle after a series of disappointing performances, including a recent loss to Ghana and a poor showing in the 2023 AFCON. Saintfiet, who has extensive experience coaching various national teams in Africa, including guiding Gambia to their first AFCON qualification, is tasked with stabilizing a team in turmoil amid a leadership crisis within Femafoot. His contract is for two years with ambitions of reaching the AFCON semi-finals and qualifying for the 2026 World Cup. The Eagles' first match under his leadership is against Mozambique on September 6, 2024. This appointment underscores Femafoot's urgent need for stability and success following recent setbacks.