In a tightly contested Mali 0-1 Senegal clash at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Tangier, Yves Bissouma’s red card proved costly as Mali were eliminated and Senegal advanced to the semi-finals.
The decisive moment in Mali 0-1 Senegal came midway through the first half when Illiman Ndiaye capitalised on a rare error from Mali goalkeeper Djigui Diarra, tapping in from close range. Despite a rain-soaked second half full of chances, Ndiaye’s strike was enough to separate the teams.
Mali had previously reached the quarter-finals after drawing all four group matches and edging Tunisia on penalties. However, in Mali vs Senegal, injuries to key players, including Amadou Haidara, and Bissouma’s second yellow card left Mali to play with ten men, severely hampering their chances.
Senegal Take Control in Mali 0-1 Senegal
Senegal faced an early scare when Kalidou Koulibaly narrowly avoided conceding a penalty for a late challenge on Lassine Sinayoko. After that moment, the Lions of Teranga gradually settled, controlling possession while patiently probing Mali’s defence.
Following Ndiaye’s opener, Senegal’s confidence grew, while Mali’s attacks came in brief bursts. In Mali vs Senegal, goalkeeper Djigui Diarra produced a string of excellent saves to deny Sadio Mane and Pathe Ciss, including crucial stops during injury time, but his heroics were not enough to prevent the defeat.
Bissouma Red Card Seals Mali’s Fate
In Mali 0-1 Senegal, Yves Bissouma received a needless second yellow in first-half injury time, forcing Mali to continue with ten outfield players. This red card significantly weakened Mali’s attacking threat and ultimately contributed to their elimination.
Senegal now progress to the semi-finals, where they will face either Egypt or Ivory Coast. The Mali 0-1 Senegal result highlights Senegal’s resilience and finishing quality, while Mali’s promising AFCON run ends despite heroics from their goalkeeper.
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