Iliman Ndiaye delivered a big-game performance to be named Man of the Match as Senegal battled past 10-man Mali to reach the AFCON 2025 semi-finals.
The Everton forward struck the only goal in a tense 1-0 win, finishing into an empty net in the 27th minute after starting the move himself and reacting quickest when the ball broke kindly in the box.
Senegal’s attacking depth showed throughout, with the tournament favourites racking up 19 shots but unable to kill the game despite long spells of control.
Substitute Pathe Ciss missed a golden chance to double the lead, firing tamely at Djigui Diarra when clean through, before Lamine Camara drew a superb fingertip save that pushed his volley onto the post. Mali’s task became even harder on the stroke of half-time when captain Yves Bissouma saw red for a second yellow after a reckless challenge.
Senegal’s back line stayed composed to secure another clean sheet in the knockouts, underlining their status as favourites as they booked a last-four clash with either Egypt or defending champions Ivory Coast.
Ndiaye’s winner also marked his first goal of this AFCON campaign, capping a standout display.
