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The decisive goal came on the back of a a mistake by Mali goalkeeper Djigui Diarra, who allowed Krepin Diatta’s cross to slip under his body before Ndiaye struck the ball home.
Ilim Ndiaye. (X)
Senegal secured a 1-0 victory over 10-man Mali in a West African derby in Tangiers, thanks to a first-half goal from Everton forward Iliman Ndiaye to seal their place in the final-four of the tournamen.
The 2022 champions, Senegal, , the second-best African team in the world rankings behind Morocco, were considered the biggest threat to the hosts before the tournament, and they have advanced to the semi-finals.
The goal, which came in the 27th minute, followed a mistake by Mali goalkeeper Djigui Diarra, who allowed Krepin Diatta’s cross to slip under his body before Ndiaye struck the loose ball into the net.
For the second consecutive knockout match, Mali were reduced to 10 men before half-time, with captain Yves Bissouma shown a second yellow card for a foul on Idrissa Gana Gueye.
Diarra made amends for his first-half error by making several excellent saves to keep Mali in the game, but one goal was enough for Senegal.
Aiming for their third final appearance in four editions, the Lions of Teranga will face either title-holders Ivory Coast or record seven-time winners Egypt, who meet on Saturday, in the semi-finals.
Senegal coach Pape Thiaw said: “It was not an easy match against a talented Mali team. Had we been more clinical in front of goal, we could have scored more goals.”
Mali coach Tom Saintfiet remarked: “It was a difficult match for us because we had to play half of it with 10 men. I am proud of the players for what they did, not only tonight but throughout the AFCON.”
January 10, 2026, 07:50 IST
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