Diarra Inspires Mali to Dramatic Victory Over Tunisia, Face Senegal in AFCON 2025 Quarter-Final Showdown
Mali are through to the quarter-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations after a dramatic victory over Tunisia in Casablanca. The Eagles triumphed 3-2 in a penalty shoot-out after a tense 1-1 draw in regulation and extra time, with goalkeeper Djigui Diarra emerging as the hero.
The match was fiercely contested from the outset. Tunisia were forced into an early change when defender Dylan Bronn limped off injured, while Mali’s challenge grew steeper in the 27th minute as Wayo Coulibaly was sent off for a reckless tackle on Hannibal Mejbri.
Despite the numerical advantage, Tunisia struggled to assert control before the break, and the sides went in level at 0-0.
The second half unfolded in front of a vibrant crowd at the Mohammed V Stadium. Tunisia pressed forward with greater intent, but Diarra stood firm, producing a string of saves to keep Mali in contention.
The breakthrough finally came in the 88th minute when Firat Chaouat headed home Elias Saad’s cross, seemingly sending Tunisia into the last eight.
Yet the drama was far from over. Deep into stoppage time, Yassine Meriah handled inside the box, gifting Mali a lifeline. Lassine Sinayoko stepped up and coolly converted the penalty in the 90+6th minute, his third goal of the tournament, to force extra time.
The additional 30 minutes offered little in terms of clear chances, leaving the shoot-out to decide the outcome. Mali held their nerve, converting three penalties to Tunisia’s two, with Diarra once again decisive between the posts.
The victory sets up a tantalising quarter-final clash with Senegal, who earlier defeated Sudan 3-1.
