Mali has secured a spot in the quarter-finals of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Cote d’Ivoire 2023 with a gripping 2-1 victory over Burkina Faso in Korhogo on Tuesday.
The Eagles’ lead was established just 3 minutes into the game when a powerful header by Amadou Haidara hit the woodwork, only for Edmond Tabsoba’s unfortunate own goal to give Mali the advantage. Despite several missed opportunities, Mali held onto their slender lead going into halftime.
Lassine Sinayoko extended Mali’s lead early in the second half, capitalizing on a defensive lapse. Burkina Faso was given a lifeline when Mohamed Konate’s header resulted in a handball by Boubacar Kouyate, leading to a VAR-awarded penalty that was successfully converted by Bertrand Traore in the 57th minute.
Despite increased pressure from the Stallions, Mali’s resilient defense held firm, securing their place in the quarter-finals. The Eagles will now face tournament hosts, Cote d’Ivoire, on Saturday, 3 February, in Bouake. The match promises to be another thrilling chapter in Mali’s journey through the competition.
