Iliman Ndiaye’s First-Half Strike Proves Decisive as Teranga Lions Advance Despite Rain-Soaked Battle in Tangier.

Mali vs Senegal AFCON 2025

Senegal have booked their place in the AFCON 2025 semi-finals after a gritty 1-0 victory over Mali in the first quarter-final clash at the Ibn Batouta Stadium in Tangier on Friday, January 9, 2026.

The only goal came in the 27th minute when recalled forward Iliman Ndiaye capitalized on a costly error from Mali goalkeeper Djigui Diarra, who spilled a low cross from Krépin Diatta, allowing Ndiaye to tap in from close range.

Mali’s task became even tougher just before half-time when captain Yves Bissouma received a second yellow card for a foul on Idrissa Gana Gueye, leaving the Eagles to play the entire second half with 10 men.

Despite the numerical disadvantage and a rain-soaked pitch, Mali showed tremendous resilience. Djigui Diarra atoned for his earlier mistake with several superb saves, including denying Sadio Mané and Pathé Ciss in quick succession, while a late dipping volley from Lassine Camara hit the post.

Senegal, the 2021 champions, dominated possession but struggled to create clear chances against a compact Mali defense. Edouard Mendy made key stops at the other end to preserve the lead as the Teranga Lions advanced to face the winner of Egypt vs Ivory Coast in the semi-finals on Wednesday, January 14.

Mali exit the tournament without a win in open play, having drawn all their matches before progressing via penalties against Tunisia in the round of 16. Their campaign was hampered by repeated red cards, including Bissouma’s dismissal marking the third consecutive outing with a player sent off.

This result keeps Senegal’s unbeaten run intact and reinforces their status as genuine title contenders under coach Pape Bouna Thiaw.

Stay with sportblits.com for full post-match analysis, highlights from the Cameroon vs Morocco clash, and live updates as the AFCON 2025 quarter-finals continue.