Paraguay U23 vs Mali U23 Prediction: Paraguay U23 are favored to win 2-1 against Mali U23 in their Olympic football match, though Mali’s desperation for a victory could make for a closely contested game.
The Parc des Princes in Paris is set to host a crucial Olympic men’s football Group D clash between Paraguay U23 and Mali U23 on July 30, 2024. With both teams fighting for a spot in the knockout stages, this match promises to be an intense affair.
Match Preview
Paraguay U23 enter this final group stage match with renewed confidence after their thrilling 4-2 victory over Israel. The win propelled them to second place in Group D with 3 points. Mali U23, on the other hand, are in a precarious position after a narrow 1-0 loss to Japan left them third in the group with just 1 point.
For Paraguay, a win would secure their place in the quarterfinals, while a draw could be enough depending on other results. Mali face a must-win situation to have any chance of advancing.
Paraguay U23 vs Mali U23 Lineups and Formations
Predicted Paraguay U23 Line (Probable 4-4-2): Balbuena, De Jesus, R. Fernandez, Enciso, Caballero, M. Fernandez, M. Gomez, D. Gomez, Perez, Rivas, Nunez.
Coach Carlos Jara is likely to stick with the attacking lineup that proved successful against Israel. The midfield duo of M. Gomez and D. Gomez will be crucial in controlling the tempo of the game.
Predicted Mali U23 Lineup (Probable 4-3-3): Doucoure, Traore, Diakite, Tounkara, Diomande, Doumbia, Jiddou, Cisse, T. Diarra, L. Diarra, B. Diarra.
Mali coach Badra Diallo may opt for a more attacking formation to chase the win they desperately need. The front three of T. Diarra, Doumbia, and B. Diarra will be tasked with breaking down Paraguay’s defense.
Key Players to Watch
Paraguay U23:
- Marcelo Fernandez: The forward’s brace against Israel showcased his clinical finishing ability.
- Diego Gomez: The midfielder’s creative play could be the key to unlocking Mali’s defense.
Mali U23:
- Cheickna Doumbia: The striker will be eager to make amends after missing a crucial penalty against Japan.
- Issouf Sissokho: The midfielder’s ability to control the game from the center of the park will be vital for Mali’s chances.
Injury Updates
No major injuries have been reported for either team ahead of this crucial encounter.
Where to Watch
Fans in the United States can catch the action live on:
- Telemundo
- Peacock
- NBC Sports App
Paraguay U23 vs Mali U23 Live Streaming and TV Schedule (Other Countries)
- United Kingdom: discovery+, EuroSport Player UK, discovery+ App
- France: Eurosport Player France, MAX
- Germany: Eurosport Player Deutschland
- Spain: Eurosport Player Spain
- Italy: Eurosport Player Italy
- Australia: Stan Sport, 9Now
- Canada: CBC Sports App, cbcsports.ca
- Japan: TVer
Form Guide
Paraguay U23:
- Last 5 matches: L-W-L-L-W
- Olympic record: W1 L1
Mali U23:
- Last 5 matches: W-D-W-D-L
- Olympic record: D1 L1
Head-to-Head
This will be the first-ever meeting between Paraguay U23 and Mali U23 at the Olympic Games.
Group D Standings
- Japan U23 – 6 points
- Paraguay U23 – 3 points
- Mali U23 – 1 point
- Israel U23 – 1 point
Who Will Win? Prediction
Given their recent form and the stakes involved, Paraguay U23 enter this match as slight favorites. Their attacking prowess, demonstrated in the win over Israel, could prove too much for Mali’s defense to handle.
Paraguay U23 vs Mali U23 Prediction: Paraguay U23 2-1 Mali U23
However, with Mali’s tournament life on the line, expect them to put up a fierce fight. The match could easily go either way, making for an exciting spectacle for neutral fans.
Latest News
- Paraguay’s Wilder Viera is available for selection after serving a one-match suspension.
- Mali’s coach Badra Diallo has emphasized the importance of converting chances after their failure to score against Japan.
As the Olympic football tournament reaches its group stage climax, this Paraguay U23 vs Mali U23 clash promises to be a captivating encounter with quarterfinal spots on the line.
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