Football/Senegal edges Mali to reach AFCON Semis
A first-half goal from Iliman Ndiaye and a crucial red card for Mali’s captain propelled Senegal to a 1-0 victory in Friday’s AFCON 2025 quarter-final derby.
The Teranga Lions seized control early in Tangier. The breakthrough came in the 27th minute when Malian goalkeeper Djigui Diara fumbled the ball, allowing Ndiaye a simple finish. Mali’s task grew harder just before halftime as skipper Yves Bissouma received a second yellow card, reducing his side to ten men.
Senegal managed the second half efficiently, though a resilient Mali still threatened. Goalkeeper Édouard Mendy was called into action several times, while Diara atoned for his error with key saves, including a late stop against Sadio Mané.
The narrow win, built on a disciplined performance, books Senegal’s place in the semi-finals as they continue their pursuit of a second continental title.
