In an enthralling encounter at the Africa Cup of Nations quarter-finals, the Ivory Coast staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Mali 2-1. The match was filled with drama, including a last-minute goal, a red card, and a saved penalty, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
Mali initially took the lead with a spectacular goal from Nene Dorgeles, capitalizing on the Ivory Coast’s reduced team strength after Odilon Kossounou’s red card. However, the hosts fought back valiantly, with Simon Adingra scoring in the 90th minute to push the game into extra time. The decisive moment came in the final minutes of extra time when Oumar Diakite scored, securing the Ivory Coast’s spot in the semi-finals.
The match began with Mali missing a crucial opportunity to go ahead when Adama Traore’s penalty was impressively saved by Ivorian keeper Yahia Fofana. The Ivory Coast struggled in the first half, with Kossounou receiving a second yellow card and being sent off, leaving the team with 10 men.
Mali’s Lassine Sinayoko was a constant threat, and his efforts eventually paid off when Dorgeles, a substitute born in the Ivory Coast, unleashed a stunning right-footed shot that found the top corner, making it a strong contender for the goal of the tournament.
However, the Ivory Coast’s resilience shone through in the 90th minute. Seko Fofana’s shot deflected off a Malian defender to Adingra, who seized the opportunity to equalize. The match’s climax came in the last minute of extra time when Diakite, following a free-kick scramble, managed to redirect Fofana’s shot into the goal, turning the game on its head.
The celebrations, however, were short-lived for Diakite, who received a second yellow card for removing his shirt, while Mali’s Hamari Traore was shown a straight red card, adding to the dramatic finale.
This victory marks a significant achievement for the Ivory Coast, showcasing their determination and ability to overcome adversity. As they advance to the semi-finals, they carry with them the momentum of a team that can turn the tide in the most challenging circumstances.