Senegal booked their place in the Africa Cup of Nations semi-finals thanks to Iliman Ndiaye’s first-half strike and a resolute defensive display against 10-man Mali in Tangier.
The Sheffield United forward capitalised on a costly error from Mali goalkeeper Diarra in the 29th minute, pouncing from close range to give the 2021 champions the lead before 32,385 spectators at the Grande Stade de Tanger.
Mali’s task became significantly more difficult when Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Yves Bissouma received his second yellow card late in the first half for tangling with Idrissa Gana Gueye. Despite being reduced to 10 men for the entire second period, the Eagles showed tremendous spirit.
Goalkeeper Diarra, seeking redemption after his earlier mistake, produced a string of magnificent saves to keep his side in contention. However, Senegal’s defensive organisation proved impenetrable as they extended their unbeaten run at the AFCON to 15 matches.
The Teranga Lions have now won 19 of their 41 meetings with their West African neighbours, remaining undefeated in the last 13 encounters stretching back to 1997. This was only the second time the sides have met at the AFCON finals, with their previous encounter – a 1-1 group stage draw in 2004 – also ending without a clear winner in regulation time.
Mali’s tournament had been remarkable for its peculiarity, having reached the quarterfinals without winning a single match in open play. They drew all four of their matches, surviving a penalty shootout against Tunisia in the round of 16 despite playing with 10 men in that contest as well.
Senegal will face either Egypt or Ivory Coast in Wednesday’s semi-final in Tangier as they bid to become only the third nation to retain the Africa Cup of Nations title.
Match details:
- Mali 0-1 Senegal
- Grande Stade de Tanger, Tangier
- Attendance: 32,385
- Goal: Ndiaye 29′
- Red card: Bissouma (Mali) 45+2′
