In a stunning display of resilience, Mali advanced to the AFCON 2025 quarterfinals after defeating Tunisia 3-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw at the Mohammed V Stadium.
Despite playing with ten men since the 26th minute after Woyo Coulibaly received a straight red, Mali’s “Eagles” refused to fold.
The match reached a fever pitch in the final minutes of regulation. In the 88th minute, Tunisia’s Firas Chaouat headed home what looked like the winning goal. However in the 96th minute, Lassine Sinayoko equalized from the penalty spot after a Tunisian handball in stoppage time.
After a scoreless extra time, Mali goalkeeper Djigui Diarra became the hero, saving two Tunisian penalties. El Bilal Touré converted the decisive spot-kick to secure the win.
Mali now moves on to face Senegal in a high-stakes quarterfinal clash this Friday in Tangier.
