Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw believes his side deserved to score more goals after edging Mali 1–0 in their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final clash at the Grand Stade de Tanger on Friday.

The reigning African champions secured their place in the semi-finals following a tense last-eight encounter, with Iliman Ndiaye netting the decisive goal in the 27th minute. Ndiaye capitalised on a costly error by Malian goalkeeper Djigui Diarra to give the Lions of Teranga the lead.

Mali’s task became even more difficult deep into first-half stoppage time when midfielder Yves Bissouma was shown a second yellow card and sent off. Reduced to 10 men, the Eagles were unable to find an equaliser as Senegal held firm to seal a narrow but crucial victory.

Speaking after the match, Thiaw acknowledged the quality of the Malian side but insisted his team could have won by a larger margin with better finishing.

“It was not an easy match because we played against a very talented Mali team, but we achieved our objective,” Thiaw told CAF Media. “Mali have great qualities and they caused us many problems.

“If we had been more clinical in front of goal, we could have scored more goals. What matters most today is qualifying for the semi-finals. We will review our mistakes and work to correct them in the next matches.”

Thiaw added: “We hope to be more efficient in front of goal and to have a bit more luck going forward.”

Goalscorer Ndiaye, who was named Player of the Match, said his focus was firmly on Senegal’s progression rather than individual recognition.

“I’m happy to receive the award, but the most important thing is that we have reached the semi-finals,” Ndiaye said. “We played very well and it shows that we are improving with each game. We will stay focused and give our best in the next match for our fans.”

Despite the defeat, Mali head coach Tom Saintfiet praised his players’ effort, particularly after playing much of the game with a man down.

“It was a difficult and intense match, especially after having to play a long period with ten men,” Saintfiet said. “That does not take away from the fact that my players were courageous and performed very well.

“I am proud of their efforts, not only in this match but throughout the tournament. We have shown the world what we are capable of, and together with my staff we will analyse the competition and see how we can improve in the future.”

While Mali bow out of the tournament, Senegal will now turn their attention to the semi-finals, where they will face the winner of Saturday’s quarter-final between record champions Egypt and defending holders Ivory Coast.