CAF has reduced Amadou Haidara’s suspension to a single match at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, offering a significant boost to Mali as the tournament enters its knockout phase.
The Mali midfielder will miss the round of 16 meeting with Tunisia but will remain available for the rest of the competition if the Eagles progress.
The decision follows a formal appeal lodged by the Malian Football Federation, which challenged the original sanction handed down after Haidara’s dismissal in the group stage.
Haidara received a straight red card in the 88th minute of Mali’s final group match against Comoros.
The incident immediately placed the midfielder at risk of a lengthy absence, with CAF initially imposing a two-match suspension.
Such a punishment threatened to deprive Mali of one of its most experienced and influential players for a large part of the knockout rounds.
FEMAFOOT acted quickly after the match and submitted an appeal to CAF, requesting a review of the disciplinary decision.
The federation argued its case within the framework of tournament regulations and awaited a ruling at a crucial moment in Mali’s campaign.
CAF responded by revising the sanction and cutting the suspension in half. The governing body confirmed that Haidara will now serve a one-match ban only, which rules him out of the last-16 fixture against Tunisia.
The midfielder will regain eligibility immediately after that match, provided Mali secure qualification to the next round.
This outcome represents a relief for the Eagles’ technical staff as they plan for the decisive stages of the competition.
Haidara plays a central role in Mali’s midfield balance through his energy, ball recovery, and experience at the highest level.
His availability for potential quarter-final or semi-final matches strengthens Mali’s tactical options and leadership on the pitch.
Mali face Tunisia on Saturday, January 3, 2026, with kick-off scheduled for 7:00 PM GMT. The fixture promises intensity and discipline, as both sides chase a place in the quarter-finals.
While Haidara will watch from the sidelines, his teammates will aim to secure qualification and ensure his swift return to action.
For Mali, the reduced suspension reshapes the outlook of the knockout phase.
The Eagles now approach the Tunisia match with renewed clarity, knowing that one of their key figures stands ready to return if the journey continues.
