Mali booked their place in the Africa Cup of Nations quarter-finals after beating Tunisia 1-0 in their Round of 16 clash, despite playing most of the match with 10 men.
The breakthrough came in stoppage time when Ibrahim Traore struck in the 90+1st minute to settle a tense contest and send Mali through.
Mali’s task had been made harder earlier when they were reduced to 10 players following Hamari Traore’s red card in the 14th minute, forcing the Eagles to defend deep for long spells against a Tunisia side pushing for a way through.
The win sets up a quarter-final meeting with Senegal and their star forward Sadio Mane, as Mali continue their AFCON campaign with momentum after a disciplined display against the Tunisians.
Traore’s performance also carried interest off the pitch, with the midfielder previously linked with a move to Kaizer Chiefs before their recruitment plans went in another direction.
The result means Mali remain in the hunt for continental glory, while Tunisia exit the tournament after failing to convert their numerical advantage into a decisive moment in front of goal.
