Official: Mali to face Russia in March

This is the first ever meeting between the two national teams

Official: Mali to face Russia in March

As part of the FIFA window for March 2026, the Malian Football Federation confirmed on February 27 that Mali will take on Russia.

This will be the first encounter in the history of the two teams. Mali will meet Russia in an international friendly on March 31. The much-anticipated clash will take place at the Gazprom Arena in Saint Petersburg, Russia, kicking off at 20:00 local time (17:00 GMT).

The announcement from the Malian Football Federation (FEMAFOOT) was succinct, covering only this fixture, while other national teams have scheduled two matches during the March international window. This friendly will serve as a crucial tune-up for the Eagles ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.