Mali’s resilience and composure under pressure carried them into the quarter-finals of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2025, as they edged past Tunisia 3-2 on penalties after a tense 1-1 draw across regulation time and extra time.
The Round of 16 clash at the Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca was a test of character from the outset. Tunisia were forced into an early reshuffle when defender Dylan Bronn was withdrawn through injury, while Mali’s challenge grew steeper in the 27th minute after Wayo Coulibaly was sent off for a reckless tackle on Hannibal Mejbri.
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Despite enjoying a numerical advantage for more than an hour, Tunisia struggled to assert control, with Mali remaining compact and disciplined. The first half ended goalless, reflecting the West Africans’ determination to absorb pressure and frustrate their opponents.
Tunisia increased the tempo after the break, pushing forward in search of a breakthrough, but Mali’s defensive structure held firm. Goalkeeper Djigui Diarra was outstanding, making a series of crucial interventions to keep his side in the contest.
The deadlock was finally broken late in the game when Firat Chaouat powered home a header from Elias Saad’s cross in the 88th minute, seemingly steering Tunisia toward victory. However, Mali refused to yield. Deep into stoppage time, a handball by Yassine Meriah handed Mali a penalty, which Lassine Sinayoko calmly dispatched in the 96th minute to send the match into extra time.
Neither side could find a decisive moment during the additional period, and the encounter was settled from penalties. Mali displayed greater calm, converting three of their attempts, while Diarra once again emerged as the hero by denying Tunisia at a critical moment.
The Eagles now turn their attention to a heavyweight quarter-final clash against Senegal, who overcame Sudan 3-1 to book their place in the last eight.