Mali secured a dramatic place in the quarterfinals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after edging past Tunisia 3–2 on penalties, following a 1–1 draw after extra time, in their Round of 16 encounter on Saturday night at the Mohammed V Stadium in Morocco.
The match took a dramatic turn early when Mali’s Woyo Coulibaly was shown a straight red card in the 26th minute for a reckless challenge, leaving his side to play the majority of the contest with ten men.
Tunisia capitalized on their numerical advantage and largely controlled the first half but failed to convert several clear chances due to poor finishing.
Late drama unfolded in the closing minutes of normal time. Tunisia finally broke the deadlock in the 89th minute through Firas Chaouat, seemingly putting the Carthage Eagles on course for qualification.
However, Mali responded deep into stoppage time when Lassine Sinayoko calmly converted a penalty in the 90+7 minute, forcing the match into extra time.
Neither side managed to find a winner during the additional 30 minutes, despite growing tension and fatigue, sending the contest to a penalty shootout.
Mali held their nerve from the spot, winning 3–2 to seal a memorable victory.
With the win, Mali advance to the quarterfinals, where they will face Senegal on January 9, in what promises to be a highly anticipated showdown as the tournament progresses toward its decisive stages.
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