Mali 0-1 Senegal: Everton forward Iliman Ndiaye’s strike sees off resilient Eagles | OneFootball

Senegal claimed a 1-0 victory over Mali in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) quarter-final at the Grand Stade de Tanger on Friday afternoon.

Mali created the game’s first clear opening when Nathan Gassama picked out Lassine Sinayoko, but he was denied by a vital block.

Iliman Ndiaye gave Senegal the lead after goalkeeper Djigui Diarra spilled Krepin Diatta’s cutback into his path.

Pape Gueye almost doubled the lead with a shot from outside the area, but his effort drifted narrowly wide.

Yves Bissouma was sent off for a second bookable offence before half-time, further complicating Mali’s task.

Edouard Mendy made his first save of the game just after the break, keeping out Sinayoko’s attempt at the near post.

Diarra was immediately called to action at the other end, turning Idrissa Gueye’s long-range shot behind for a corner.

Mendy denied Abdoulaye Diaby just before the hour mark, before Diarra kept Mali in the contest with two quick saves. He stopped Sadio Mane’s shot before reacting sharply to keep out Pathe Ciss’ header.

Senegal looked the likeliest to score before the final whistle, but were repeatedly denied by the Malian goalkeeper.

Pape Thiaw’s side will now face either Egypt or Ivory Coast in the semi-final on Wednesday.