Senegal moved a step closer to another Africa Cup of Nations crown after securing a narrow 1–0 victory over Mali in a hard-fought quarter-final at the Grand Stade de Tanger on Friday night, a result that sends the Teranga Lions into the AFCON 2025 semi-finals.
In a tense West African showdown, chances were limited as both sides cancelled each other out in midfield. Senegal, champions in 2021, showed greater composure when it mattered, drawing on their tournament experience to overcome a stubborn Malian outfit.
The decisive moment arrived in the 27th minute when Iliman Ndiaye, making his first start of the tournament, capitalised on a rare mistake by Mali goalkeeper Djigui Diarra. The ball spilled loose inside the area, and Ndiaye reacted quickest to tap home his first goal of the competition.
Mali’s challenge suffered a major blow just before half-time. Captain Yves Bissouma was dismissed in stoppage time after receiving a second yellow card, leaving the Eagles to play the entire second half with ten men. Despite the numerical disadvantage, Mali remained organised and resilient, refusing to surrender easily.
After the break, Senegal dominated possession and dictated the tempo, patiently searching for a second goal. Diarra redeemed himself with a series of outstanding saves that kept Mali in contention and ensured a nervy finish.
However, Senegal managed the closing stages with maturity, seeing out the result to book their place in the last four. The Teranga Lions will now face the winner of Saturday’s heavyweight clash between Egypt and Côte d’Ivoire, while Mali bow out after an admirable campaign marked by discipline and determination.
Coaches’ Reactions
Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw praised his side’s professionalism while admitting there is room for improvement:
“It was a very difficult match against a talented Mali team. They caused us many problems, and we knew we had to be patient. We achieved our objective, which was to qualify, even if we should have been more clinical in front of goal. We will correct our mistakes and prepare better for the next match.”
Mali coach Tom Saintfiet expressed pride in his players despite the defeat: “Playing with ten men for such a long time made things very complicated, but my players showed great courage and discipline. I am proud of their performance today and throughout the tournament. We have shown our character and competitiveness, and we will take valuable lessons from this experience.”
Man of the Match, Iliman Ndiaye, shifted focus from personal recognition to the team’s progress:
“I am happy with the award, but the most important thing is that we are through to the semi-finals. The team is growing with every match, and now we must stay focused and give everything in the next game for our supporters.”
With momentum building and confidence rising, Senegal remain firmly in the hunt for continental glory as AFCON 2025 enters its decisive stages.
