Mali on Saturday named Everton midfielder Abdoulaye Doucoure in a 28-man squad for their 2022 World Cup play-off against Tunisia later this month.
Mali take on Tunisia at the 50,000 capacity Stade du 26 Mars on March 25, with the reverse leg set for Tunis four days later.
The winners from the tie will earn one of Africa’s five tickets to the World Cup finals in Qatar from November 21 to December 18.
Abdoulaye had been cleared by FIFA to play for Mali after he represented France at U-21 level and has remained a French international since birth.
The 29-year-old had been approached by Mali four years ago to switch allegiance and represent Mali in international matches but he rejected the approach.
He is one of five uncapped players selected by Mali, along with SV Redid youngster Néne Dorgelès, Almamy Touré of Fracfort, Amadou Danté of Strum Gaz and Saliou Guindo who turns for Albanian side KF Laci.
Aliou Dieng, Djigui Diarra and Ibrahim Bosso who all played at the recent Africa Cup of Nations, as well as long-term absentee Cheick Traore, are also on the list.
Mali squad to face Tunisia
