The match had everything: a catastrophic goalkeeping blunder, a captain’s red card, and a defensive masterclass that sent the "Lions of Teranga" one step closer to history.
The Turning Point: Diarra’s Disaster & Ndiaye’s Gift
The breakthrough came in the 27th minute, and it’s a moment Mali’s goalkeeper, Djigui Diarra, will want to forget.
A dangerous cross from Krepin Diatta seemed like a routine catch for Diarra, but the ball inexplicably slipped through his hands and under his body. Iliman Ndiaye, making his first start of the tournament, reacted with lightning speed to poke the loose ball into the net. It was a "gift" that shifted the entire momentum of the quarter-final.
The Red Card: Bissouma’s Moment of Madness
Mali’s uphill battle became a mountain in first-half stoppage time. Captain Yves Bissouma, already on a yellow card for an earlier foul on Sadio Mane, committed a reckless challenge on Idrissa Gana Gueye.
The referee didn't hesitate—red card. For the second knockout game in a row, Mali were forced to play with 10 men. While they survived against Tunisia in the previous round, Senegal’s tactical discipline proved too much to overcome.
Match Report Card: Senegal vs. Mali
| Feature | Details |
| Final Score | Senegal 1 - 0 Mali |
| Goal Scorer | Iliman Ndiaye (27') |
| Red Card | Yves Bissouma (45+2') |
| Man of the Match | Iliman Ndiaye (Senegal) |
| Unsung Hero | Djigui Diarra (Made 5 crucial saves after his error) |
What’s Next: A Heavyweight Semi-Final Awaits
Senegal's path to the final doesn't get any easier. They will remain in Tangier to face the winner of the massive clash between Egypt and Ivory Coast.
Stat of the Match: Senegal has now gone 16 AFCON matches unbeaten in 90 minutes—the longest streak in the competition's history.
Mali’s journey ends in heartbreak, but they leave with heads held high after a heroic second-half performance where, despite the man disadvantage, they forced Edouard Mendy into two world-class saves.