AFCON 2025: Senegal, Mali set for high-stakes West African quarter-final clash

A thrilling West African showdown is on the cards in Tangier on Friday as Senegal and Mali face off in the quarter-finals of the 1XBET CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025, with a coveted place in the semi-finals hanging in the balance.

The encounter pitches two familiar neighbours against each other in a contest steeped in rivalry, mutual respect and long-standing history. Matches between Senegal and Mali are rarely straightforward, often decided by narrow margins, mental strength and decisive moments.

Senegal head into the clash carrying the confidence of reigning champions and one of the most reliable records at the tournament. Mali, on the other hand, arrive with growing belief built on grit, endurance and an ability to survive under extreme pressure.

Senegal banking on stability and style

As the tournament has progressed, Senegal have steadily asserted themselves. The Lions of Teranga are unbeaten in their last 15 AFCON matches and have combined efficiency going forward with composure in difficult moments. Their Round of 16 victory over Sudan, achieved after coming from behind, underlined their resilience and maturity in knockout situations.

Midfielder Pape Gueye has stressed that Senegal will not abandon their footballing identity despite Mali’s physical reputation.

“We know Mali are a very physical side,” Gueye said. “But that won’t change the way we play. Our strength lies in moving the ball quickly, playing between the lines and being efficient with possession.”

That blend of physical readiness and technical quality has been central to Senegal’s campaign. Head coach Pape Thiaw has repeatedly highlighted the importance of discipline, structure and emotional control, fully aware that AFCON quarter-finals are often won as much in the mind as on the pitch.

Mali drawing strength from adversity

Mali’s path to the last eight has been far from smooth. The Eagles have yet to record a win in open play at the tournament but have consistently found ways to stay alive. Their Round of 16 triumph over Tunisia, secured via penalties after extra time despite spending long periods with ten men, was a powerful demonstration of their fighting spirit.

Midfielder Lassana Coulibaly believes those experiences have hardened the team for the challenge ahead.

“Senegal are one of the best teams in Africa,” he admitted. “But over 90 minutes, anything can happen. We’ve been through a lot in this competition, and that gives us confidence.”

Mali coach Tom Saintfiet has also embraced the challenge, describing the quarter-final as a “war” while making it clear his side will not be overawed. With attackers like Lassine Sinayoko, who has already scored three goals to lead Mali’s scoring charts at the tournament, the Eagles know one moment of quality could change everything.

History, but no guarantees

Friday’s match will mark only the second meeting between Senegal and Mali at the AFCON finals, following a 1-1 draw in the group stage back in 2004. Beyond the continental stage, however, the two teams have met 40 times in all competitions, with Senegal holding the advantage and remaining unbeaten against Mali for over 20 years.

Still, past records offer little comfort at this stage of the tournament. Senegal may be favourites on paper, but Mali’s proven ability to handle pressure — including repeated success in penalty shootouts — makes them dangerous opponents in knockout football.

Under the lights in Tangier, composure, patience and precision will be crucial. One team will move a step closer to continental glory, while the other will see its Moroccan campaign come to an end.

Pre-match quotes

Pape Thiaw (Senegal head coach):
“This is a match we have prepared for with a lot of respect for a very good Malian team. For 90 minutes, we are opponents. We must focus on our football, keep our rhythm and manage our emotions if we want to qualify.”

Tom Saintfiet (Mali head coach):
“Senegal are the best team at the moment, but we are not afraid. We are well prepared, everyone is ready, and although they are favourites, I believe we can surprise them.”

Key stat

This will be the 41st meeting between Senegal and Mali in all competitions. Senegal lead the head-to-head with 19 wins to Mali’s eight, alongside 13 draws. Senegal are unbeaten in their last 15 AFCON matches, while Mali have reached the quarter-finals at AFCON 2025 without a win in open play.