Senegal and Morocco have booked their tickets to the semi-final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after overcoming tough battles against their opponents on January 9, 2025.
For Senegal, the game was keenly contested, with both sides staying compact and preventing dangerous chances early on. However, the match opened up as it progressed.
As the pressure mounted, Ndiaye pounced on a loose ball from goalkeeper Diarra and struck it into the net for the opener. A few minutes later, Mali skipper Bissouma was sent off for a second yellow card following foul play.
Afterwards, the Teranga Lions created numerous chances, bombarding Mali with shots — including efforts from Sadio Mané — but goalkeeper Diarra produced top-class saves to keep the scoreline close.
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Sinayoko’s attempts to equalise proved futile as Benjamin Mendy made crucial saves to secure a clean sheet and a 1-0 victory for Senegal.
Meanwhile, host nation Morocco kept their title hopes alive after defeating Cameroon 2-0.
The Atlas Lions delivered a dominant performance, suffocating the Indomitable Lions with relentless attacks from all angles.
Real Madrid star Brahim Díaz broke the deadlock with a header that beat the goalkeeper, boosting Morocco’s confidence.
Cameroon’s defensive approach did not help their cause, and when they switched to open play in the second half, they still failed to create clear chances.
The Atlas Lions did not relent, and from a corner kick that Cameroon’s defenders failed to clear, Sabiri controlled the ball and struck it into the net to seal a 2-0 win.
Senegal and Morocco will now look to clinch the trophy and further cement their place in AFCON history.
SB/AE
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