Iliman Ndiaye’s first-half goal and Yves Bissouma’s red card help Senegal overcome resilient Mali to secure a place in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations semi-finals in Morocco.
Iliman Ndiaye scored the only goal as Senegal defeated 10-man Mali 1-0 in the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) quarter-finals on Friday to advance to the last four of the tournament in Morocco.
The Everton forward tapped in from close range in the 27th minute at Ibn Battouta Stadium in Tangier after Mali goalkeeper Djigui Diarra failed to hold a low cross from Krepin Diatta.
The goal settled a tight West African derby played in wet conditions, with few clear opportunities for either side.
Bissouma red card changes game
Senegal’s chances improved just before half-time when Mali captain Yves Bissouma earned a second yellow card for a foul on Idrissa Gueye. The Tottenham midfielder’s dismissal marked Mali’s third red card in successive knockout matches.
The 2021 champions controlled possession against 10 men but found it hard to create openings against a determined Mali defence.
Mali reached the quarter-finals without a regulation-time win, drawing all group games before beating Tunisia on penalties despite another red card.
Diarra keeps Mali in contention
Edouard Mendy saved from Abdoulaye Diaby early in the second half for Senegal.
Diarra then made several key stops, pushing El Hadji Malick Diouf’s shot onto the bar in first-half added time, denying Sadio Mane and Pathe Ciss, and tipping Lamine Camara’s late volley against the post.
Senegal march on
The win stretches Senegal’s unbeaten Afcon record to 16 games and takes them to a third semi-final in four tournaments.
Ndiaye’s strike, his first in the competition, rewarded coach Pape Thiaw’s choice to start him alongside Habib Diallo.
Mali bowed out despite showing resilience under coach Tom Saintfiet, undermined by disciplinary issues. Referee Abongile Tom also handled their last-16 tie against Tunisia.
Senegal will face the winners of Saturday’s match between seven-time champions Egypt and holders Ivory Coast in the semi-finals.
