Senegal booked their place in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) semi-finals with a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Mali, as Iliman Ndiaye delivered the decisive moment in a tense quarter-final encounter. A disciplined, tournament-savvy performance ensured the reigning champions stayed firmly on course for another deep run.
Match Summary: Senegal vs Mali
In a contest defined by fine margins and tactical caution, Senegal national football team showed composure under pressure to edge past Mali national football team. Senegal absorbed Mali’s early intensity, controlled the midfield battle, and struck when it mattered most.
The breakthrough arrived courtesy of Iliman Ndiaye, whose clinical finish proved enough to separate the sides and send the Lions of Teranga into the last four.
Final Score: Senegal 1–0 Mali
Goal: Iliman Ndiaye (27’)
Ndiaye’s Moment of Quality
With space at a premium, Ndiaye’s sharp movement and calm execution stood out. Latching onto a well-timed pass, the forward kept his nerve to slot home, rewarding Senegal’s patient build-up play. It was a goal befitting a knockout tie—decisive, composed, and perfectly timed.
Beyond the goal, Ndiaye’s work rate and ball retention helped Senegal manage the game, especially as Mali pushed forward in search of an equaliser.
Tactical Discipline Seals the Win
Senegal’s strength lay in their structure. Compact between the lines, they limited Mali’s clear chances and protected the lead with intelligent game management. The midfield screened effectively, while the back line dealt confidently with aerial threats and late pressure.
Mali threatened in spells but found Senegal’s organisation difficult to break down, as the defending champions closed out the match with maturity.
What This Means for Senegal
The result confirms Senegal as AFCON semi-finalists, keeping their title defence alive. They will now face Egypt or Ivory Coast in a blockbuster semi-final on Wednesday—an encounter that promises intensity, history, and elite-level quality.
With momentum building and confidence high, Senegal remain one of the teams to beat as the tournament reaches its decisive phase.
Looking Ahead
As the stakes rise, Senegal’s blend of experience, discipline, and timely brilliance could prove decisive. If Ndiaye and company maintain this level, the Lions of Teranga will fancy their chances of going all the way once again at the Africa Cup of Nations.
One goal was enough—but the message was clear: Senegal mean business.
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