Mali Appoint Portuguese Coach Anthony Da Silva on 3-Year Deal

The Mali Football Federation has officially appointed Portuguese coach Anthony Da Silva as the new head coach of the national team on a three-year contract, replacing Belgian manager Tom Saintfiet, who stepped down from the role in April.

Da Silva, 45, takes charge of the Eagles as the federation begins a new chapter, with his first major assignment set to be the qualification campaign for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. 

Mali has been drawn in Group L alongside Cape Verde, Rwanda, and Liberia.

Speaking during his official unveiling in Bamako, Da Silva outlined his football philosophy, emphasizing an attacking style of play built around ball possession and controlling the tempo of matches.

"I prefer teams that take the initiative, dominate possession, and dictate the rhythm of the game," the Portuguese coach said.

Before moving into coaching, Da Silva enjoyed a professional playing career in Portugal and Romania, representing several clubs, including Estrela Amadora and CFR Cluj. 

During his time with the Romanian side, he won six domestic trophies, including two Romanian league titles.

Following his retirement, Da Silva began his coaching career in Portugal's lower divisions before taking charge of Romanian club Politehnica Iași in 2024, his most recent managerial position before accepting the Mali job.