![Mali's players celebrate after winning the last-16 game at Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca [AFP]](https://independentnews.co.sz/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/afp_695995a00c47-1767478688.webp)
Mali’s 10-man squad triumphed over Tunisia in a penalty shootout to secure a place in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) quarterfinals. The match ended 1-1 after extra time, with Mali ultimately winning 3-2 on penalties.
The dramatic contest, held at the Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca, Morocco, saw Tunisia take the lead in the 88th minute through Firas Chaouat’s header. This came after Mali’s Woyo Coulibaly had been sent off in the 26th minute, leaving them a man down for the majority of the match.
However, in stoppage time, Mali was awarded a penalty when Tunisia’s Yassine Meriah handled the ball in the box. Lassine Sinayoko kept his composure to convert the spot-kick, forcing the game into extra time.
Despite their numerical advantage, Tunisia struggled to capitalize, with Mali’s defense holding firm under pressure. Heavy rain in the second half of extra time further disrupted the game, forcing many spectators to abandon their seats.
As the match progressed to penalties, Tottenham Hotspur’s Yves Bissouma missed Mali’s first attempt, but Tunisia’s Ali Abdi followed suit, missing his kick. Mali’s goalkeeper Djigui Diarra then saved two penalties, while El Bilal Toure scored the decisive spot-kick, sending Mali through to face Senegal in the next round.
Mali, yet to win the continental title, will meet the 2022 champions Senegal in the quarterfinals on Friday in Tangier.
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