AFCON 2025: Senegal Secure Semi-Final Spot After 1–0 Win Over Mali

Senegal have become the first team to book a place in the semi-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations following a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Mali.

The Teranga Lions scored the decisive goal in the 27th minute, with Iliman Ndiaye finding the back of the net to give the defending champions an early advantage.

Mali’s task became more difficult when Yves Bissouma was shown a red card deep into first-half stoppage time, leaving them with ten men for the remainder of the contest.

Despite enjoying a numerical advantage after the break, Senegal were unable to extend their lead, as Mali defended resolutely to keep the scoreline narrow.

Senegal will now face either Egypt or Burkina Faso in the semi-final, with a place in the AFCON final at stake.