Senegal became the first team to secure a place in the semifinals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after defeating Mali 1–0 in a fiercely contested West African derby at the Grande Stade de Tanger on Friday. Senegal Edge 10-Man Mali to Reach AFCON 2025 Semifinals. The victory keeps the reigning champions’ unbeaten run intact and propels them one step closer to retaining their continental title.
Iliman Ndiaye’s First-Half Strike
The match was marked by intensity and physicality, with both sides battling for dominance in midfield. Mali, who had reached the quarterfinals without winning a match in open play, started the game with a disciplined and compact defense, while Senegal looked to exploit quick transitions with the pace of Sadio Mané and Krépin Diatta on the wings.
The breakthrough came in the 27th minute when Diatta made a powerful run down the right flank. His low cross into the box was misjudged by Mali goalkeeper Djigui Diarra, who failed to clear it effectively. Ndiaye reacted quickest to pounce on the loose ball and finished from close range to give Senegal the lead.
Mali Reduced to 10 Men
Mali’s challenge worsened just before halftime when captain Yves Bissouma was shown a second yellow card for a late tackle on Idrissa Gana Gueye. With the dismissal, Mali were forced to play the entire second half with 10 men, putting them at a significant disadvantage.
Despite the numerical deficit, Mali came out after the break with renewed determination. Djigui Diarra redeemed himself with two fantastic saves, denying Sadio Mané and Pathé Ismaël Ciss as Senegal pushed for a second goal to secure the win. Mali also remained a threat on set pieces, with Abdoulaye Diaby coming close twice, but Senegal’s goalkeeper Édouard Mendy was equal to the challenge.
Senegal’s Composure Seals the Victory
Senegal’s experience and composure ultimately saw them through. They managed the game expertly, slowing the tempo and limiting Mali’s attacking opportunities. The Lions of Teranga were calm in the closing stages, and the match ended with Senegal preserving their slim 1–0 lead.
Senegal’s Continued Dominance Over Mali
This win extends Senegal’s unbeaten streak against Mali to 13 consecutive meetings and marks their fifth semifinal appearance in AFCON history. They will now face the winner of the quarterfinal match between Egypt and the Ivory Coast as they continue their pursuit of another AFCON title.
Mali’s Spirited Exit
For Mali, it was a brave exit. Despite the setback of a red card, their resilience carried them deep into the tournament, but missed chances and the costly dismissal were ultimately too much to overcome against a well-drilled Senegal team. Nevertheless, Mali’s strong tournament performance demonstrated their quality and determination, even as they fell short against the African giants.
