Mali secured a commanding 4–1 victory over Madagascar in their FIFA World Cup qualification clash, demonstrating clinical finishing despite modest underlying metrics. Operating in a 4–2–3–1 formation, the hosts converted opportunities ruthlessly, with Dorgeles Nene among the goalscorers, while Madagascar's 4–3–3 setup offered limited resistance. Mali's expected goals of 0.82 underscored their efficiency in front of goal relative to chances created, while Madagascar managed just 0.31 xG in defeat. The Malian goalkeeper faced a post-shot expected goals conceded of 1.0, suggesting Madagascar's solitary goal represented reasonable clinical play from the visitors despite their overall dominance being resisted. This emphatic win solidifies Mali's grip on Group I qualification.