Even before his side kicks off their Group D campaign at the African Cup of Nations, Mali coach Alain Giresse anticipates a tough battle against Ghana.

Both sides will meet in the penultimate group clash in Franceville on Sunday, January 28.

“It’s not an easy group, it’s a difficult group,” 59-year-old said as his side will be without Frederic Kanoute, Mahamadou Diarra and Momo Sissoko for the other games against Guinea and debutants Botswana.

“It will not be easy especially against Ghana. They are the favourites, but in the end the other teams will compete.”

Giresse, who has refused to set a target for his team says his side will do whatever it takes to achieve their ambitions.

“We want the best, we want the maximum. We will do whatever it takes to get the best performance.”