Senegal became the first team to secure a place in the semi-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with a 1-0 victory over 10-man Mali, extending their unbeaten run in 90-minute matches at the tournament to 16 games (W11, D5).

The Lions of Teranga showed intent from the first seconds, as West Ham’s El Hadji Malick Diouf delivered a dangerous early cross. Moments later, captain Kalidou Koulibaly was lucky not to concede a penalty after tangling with Lassine Sinayoko.

Mali had a chance to capitalise on a misplaced pass from Koulibaly midway through the first half, but Sinayoko was thwarted by Krepin Diatta. Diatta would soon make a decisive contribution at the other end, delivering a cross that Mali goalkeeper Djigui Diarra mishandled, allowing Iliman Ndiaye to calmly convert the loose ball in the 27th minute.

Senegal looked to extend their lead, with Pape Gueye firing a long-range effort wide and Diouf denied by a strong save from Diarra. Mali’s first half worsened in stoppage time when captain Yves Bissouma was sent off for a second reckless challenge, leaving coach Tom Saintfiet with a tougher task at halftime.

Despite being reduced to 10 men, Mali tested Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy early in the second half through Sinayoko and later via centre-back Abdoulaye Diaby, who was also denied.

Senegal manager Pape Thiaw brought on Lamine Camara and Pathe Ciss to regain control. Ciss saw his header saved by Diarra, while Camara’s ambitious volley in second-half stoppage time was tipped onto the post by the busy Mali keeper.

Though Senegal’s performance was not entirely convincing, the victory ensured progression. This marked the first time in four years that Senegal won an AFCON finals game by a single goal, reminiscent of their 1-0 win over Zimbabwe en route to the 2021 title.

Thiaw’s side will now prepare for their semi-final at the Grand Stade de Tanger in five days, where they will face either Egypt or Ivory Coast.