In November 2008, Yatabaré earned himself a call-up to the Mali national football team, following his impressive club displays. He made his international debut on 19 November 2008 against Algeria in Rouen, with the score finishing 1–1. On 10 January 2010, in the opening game of the 2010 African Cup of Nations, he scored a dramatic equaliser, as Mali came from 0–4 down to draw 4–4 with Angola. He also made the squad for the 2012 tournament, helping the team reach the semi-finals and third place.