Senegal progressed to the semi-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over 10-man Mali, courtesy of a first-half tap-in from Everton forward Iliman Ndiaye.

Ndiaye capitalized on a defensive error by Mali, slotting home from five yards after goalkeeper Djigui Diarra failed to gather a low cross from Krepin Diatta in the 26th minute. Despite Mali’s numerical disadvantage for most of the match, Senegal controlled the game and held on to secure a place in the last four.

Key Moments: Bissouma Sent Off

Mali’s Yves Bissouma, the Eagles’ captain and Tottenham midfielder, was sent off in first-half stoppage time after receiving a second yellow card for a late challenge. The dismissal left Mali with 10 men and further hindered their chances of equalizing.

Earlier, referee Abongile Tom denied Mali a potential penalty when Lassine Sinayoko was brought down inside the box by Senegal captain Kalidou Koulibaly, but the video assistant referee was not called to review the incident.

Senegal Goalkeeping and Chances

Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy played a key role in keeping Mali at bay in the second half. He made crucial saves, including denying Abdoulaye Diaby and stopping Pathe Ciss after defensive errors. Despite missing a few chances themselves—Ciss firing straight at Diarra and Lassine Camara hitting the post—Senegal’s defense and composure ensured they remained unbeaten.

Mali goalkeeper Diarra also made several saves, including from Sadio Mane and Pathe Ciss, but the Eagles were unable to convert their sporadic opportunities into goals. Mali exited the tournament without winning a match, following repeated disciplinary issues that saw them reduced to 10 men for the third consecutive game.

Senegal Await Semi-Final Opponents

With this win, Pape Thiaw’s Senegal will now face the winners of the quarter-final clash between Egypt and Ivory Coast, scheduled for Saturday in Agadir at 19:00 GMT.

Senegal’s path to the final has been steady; they had eased past Sudan in the last 16 despite an early scare, showcasing their clinical efficiency and defensive solidity. Mali, on the other hand, struggled to display the quality expected of their squad and will be disappointed to exit at the quarter-final stage for the second consecutive tournament.

Match Summary

• Senegal 1-0 Mali
• Goal: Iliman Ndiaye (26′)
• Red Card: Yves Bissouma (Mali, 45+’ for second yellow)
• Notable Saves: Edouard Mendy (Senegal), Djigui Diarra (Mali)

Senegal now remain in Morocco for what promises to be a high-stakes semi-final, aiming to challenge for their first Afcon title since 2021.