Senegal Takes Early Lead Against Mali in AFCON Quarterfinal

TANGIER, Morocco -January 9, 2026

In a highly anticipated Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 quarter-final clash, Senegal took the lead against Mali on Friday at the Stade Ibn-Batouta in Tangier, with Iliman Ndiaye breaking the deadlock in the first half. Senegal now sits 1-0 up at halftime as both teams battle for a place in the semifinals.

Abongile Tom doesn't mess around 😤

Yves Bissouma sees his second yellow and Mali are down to 10 🟥👇

📺 Stream #TotalEnergiesAFCON2025 on DStv: https://t.co/B0jLrQW5cc pic.twitter.com/EYBLlN4pxu

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) January 9, 2026

Match Highlights

⚽ Senegal 1–0 Mali (HT) – Iliman Ndiaye’s strike in the 27th minute put the Lions of Teranga ahead early.
🔴 Red Card – Mali’s Yves Bissouma was sent off just before halftime after receiving a second yellow, leaving Mali with 10 men.
The electric atmosphere at the Tangier stadium has been marked by passionate support for both sides as they vie for continental glory.

Road to the Quarterfinal

Senegal entered the knockout stage in commanding form, topping their group and then defeating Sudan 3–1 in the Round of 16. They became the first team to seal a quarter-final spot in the competition thanks to their dominant performances.

Mali’s journey has been gritty and resilient. After drawing every group match and beating Tunisia in a penalty shootout, the Eagles reached the quarterfinals despite never winning a game in open play at this edition.

Tactical Breakdown

Senegal — backed by squad depth and attacking talent — has prioritized structured pressing and quick transitions, qualities that paid off with Ndiaye’s opener. With numerical advantage following Bissouma’s dismissal, Senegal looks poised to control large swaths of the second half.

Mali, on the other hand, will require resilience and tactical discipline to resist Senegalese pressure and find a late spark to stay in the tournament. Their mental strength was a key theme in getting this far, as team leaders have emphasized focus under adversity.

What’s Next

A Senegal victory would see them advance to the AFCON 2025 semifinals, where they would face either Egypt or the Ivory Coast, winners of the other quarterfinal tie.

In the broader context, the 2025 AFCON quarterfinals have drawn major global attention, with the remaining eight teams collectively holding 22 historic continental titles, illustrating the depth and competitiveness of African football this year.