Senegal first team to reach AFCON 2025 semi-finals after 1-0 win over Mali

Senegal have become the first team to qualify for the 2025 AFCON semi-finals after a narrow 1-0 victory over Mali on Friday evening. Iliman Ndiaye scored the only goal in the 27th minute at a packed stadium. Mali's Yves Bissouma received a red card in added time before halftime, leaving them with 10 men for the entire second half.

Despite the numerical advantage, Senegal failed to extend their lead after the break. The Teranga Lions will now face either Egypt or Burkina Faso for a place in the final. The match marks Senegal's strong defensive performance, keeping a clean sheet even against a reduced Mali side.

AFCON 2025 continues this weekend with more quarter-final clashes. Nigeria's Super Eagles face Algeria in what promises to be a tough encounter. Will Senegal's disciplined approach carry them to another final, or will the winner of Egypt-Burkina Faso provide a stronger challenge?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/01/09/afcon-2025-senegal-become-first-team-to-qualify-for-semi-final/