AFCON 2025: Mali beat Tunisia to set up quarter-final clash with Senegal

Mali secured a quarter-final place at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after edging Tunisia 3–2 on penalties following a tense 1–1 draw on Saturday.

The Round of 16 contest was decided by spot kicks after Lassine Sinayoko’s stoppage-time penalty cancelled Firat Chaouat’s late opener.

Tunisia struck first in the 88th minute when Chaouat powered home a header from Elias Saad’s cross to spark celebrations.

Mali, however, forced extra time in dramatic fashion as Sinayoko calmly converted from the spot in the 90+6th minute.

Earlier, Tunisia suffered an injury setback as defender Dylan Bronn was forced off in the opening stages of the match.

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Mali’s task grew tougher in the 27th minute when Wayo Coulibaly was sent off for a mistimed challenge on Hannibal Mejbri.

Despite their numerical advantage, Tunisia failed to dominate before the break, with both sides heading into half-time scoreless.

After the interval, Tunisia pressed forward but were repeatedly denied by Mali’s disciplined defence and goalkeeper,  Djigui Diarra.

The match was eventually settled in a penalty shoot-out, where Mali showed greater composure from the spot.

Diarra emerged as the hero, making crucial saves as Mali converted three penalties to Tunisia’s two.

Mali will now face Senegal in the quarter-finals following the Teranga Lions’ 3–1 win over Sudan.

The Star