![LIVE UPDATES: Ivory Coast vs Mali (2019 AFCON)](https://cdn.ghanaweb.com/imagelib/pics/92132983.jpg)
The Black Stars are in action later today and we are all geared up for that tie but before that is a West African derby between Ivory Coast and Mali.
Mali were one of the standout performers in the group stages, picking seven out of a possible nine points to emerge top of Group E.
On the other hand, Ivory Coast qualified to this stage winning two (Namibia, South Africa) and losing to Algeria.
Ivory Coast came into this tournament as favourites but one thing we’ve learnt from the tournament so far is that it’s no respecter of big names.
Mali are the underdogs in this tie but their impressive form in the group stages suggests that the Ivorians could be in for a shock should they underrate their opponents.
Ivory Coast have won 18 of the 30 encounters between the two countries, with nine draws and a paltry three Mali successes.
Moussa Marega and captain Abdoulaye Diaby are likely to return after being rested from the starting XI for the 1-0 win over Angola last time out.
Serge Aurier remains sidelined due to a hamstring injury, meaning Mamadou Bagayoko is likely to maintain his place at right back for Ivory Coast.
Game starts at 4:00pm
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