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Senegal Edges Past Mali to Secure AFCON Semi-Final Spot
In a tightly contested Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final clash held in Tangiers, Senegal emerged victorious with a 1-0 win over a resilient Mali side reduced to ten men. The decisive goal came in the first half from recalled striker Iliman Ndiaye, propelling Senegal into the semi-finals.
Key Turning Point: Mali’s Captain Sent Off
Mali’s ambitions suffered a significant setback just before halftime when their captain, Yves Bissouma, received a second yellow card, resulting in his dismissal. This red card dramatically shifted the momentum, leaving Mali to battle with a numerical disadvantage for the remainder of the match.
Goalkeeper’s Error and Defensive Heroics
The match’s only goal was capitalized on following a rare mistake by Mali’s goalkeeper Djigui Diarra, who failed to secure a cross from Krepin Diatta, allowing Ndiaye to score from the loose ball. Despite this error, Diarra redeemed himself with several crucial saves later in the game, keeping Mali competitive against Senegal’s persistent attacks.
Upcoming Semi-Final Showdown
Senegal now awaits the winner of the quarter-final between defending champions Ivory Coast and seven-time AFCON winners Egypt, scheduled for Saturday. This sets the stage for a high-stakes semi-final encounter between two African football powerhouses.
Match Highlights and Controversies
Early in the game, Mali’s Lassine Sinayoko appealed for a penalty after an alleged foul by Senegal’s captain Kalidou Koulibaly, who was returning from suspension. However, the referee dismissed the claim after VAR review, with replays indicating simulation by Sinayoko.
Bissouma’s first yellow card came midway through the first half for a foul on veteran striker Sadio Mane. Mali’s attacking threat was further blunted when Sinayoko’s promising breakaway was thwarted by a timely sliding tackle from Krepin Diatta.
Senegal’s Dominance and Tactical Control
Despite the goal being gifted due to a goalkeeper error, Senegal’s control of possession and territorial advantage justified their lead. This match marked only the second AFCON meeting between the two nations, the previous encounter ending in a draw during the 2004 group stage.
Mali’s Resilience Despite Adversity
Even after being reduced to ten men, Mali demonstrated commendable determination. On the hour mark, Abdoulaye Diaby nearly equalized with a close-range shot from a free-kick, only to be denied by Senegal’s goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, a former Chelsea star.
Late Substitutions and Defensive Fortitude
With 15 minutes left, Senegal introduced 17-year-old Paris Saint-Germain forward Ibrahim Mbaye to maintain their attacking impetus. Meanwhile, Mali’s goalkeeper Diarra continued to thwart Senegal’s attempts, making crucial saves against Pathe Ciss and Lamine Camara during seven minutes of stoppage time.
Looking Ahead: Senegal’s Quest for AFCON Glory
Senegal’s disciplined performance and ability to capitalize on key moments have propelled them into the semi-finals, keeping their hopes alive for a first AFCON title since 2021. Their next opponent, either Ivory Coast or Egypt, promises a thrilling contest as the tournament intensifies.
