Tunisia’s poor run in the Africa Cup of Nations continued on Saturday, as they were held to a draw by Mali in their latest Group E match, keeping the Carthage Eagles without a win.
Mali, meanwhile, extended their unbeaten run at the tournament and, with this result, matched Nigeria’s record of consecutive AFCON group-stage matches without defeat.
Tunisia started with intent and looked to impose themselves early, but Mali were well organised and limited the space in midfield, forcing the game into a physical battle and breaking up the rhythm as the first half went on.
Chances were limited before the break, with both sides struggling to turn possession into clear openings, even as Tunisia pushed for a way through.
After the restart, Tunisia increased the tempo and tried to find a breakthrough, yet Mali remained disciplined at the back and continued to frustrate their opponents with solid positioning and timely challenges.
The match ended in a draw, a result that leaves Tunisia still searching for their first victory and under pressure as the group stage continues, while Mali took another step forward and equalled Nigeria’s long-standing AFCON group-stage unbeaten record.
