While the duel between the 'Carthage Eagles' and the 'Eagles' of Mali at the Mohammed V Stadium may not have been a spectacle of flowing football, its sheer intensity and dramatic narrative were undeniable, culminating in a nail-biting penalty shootout.

Goalkeeper Djigui Diarra emerged as Mali's undisputed hero, saving two crucial penalties after his side had endured significant adversity. Indeed, Tunez, champions of the Africa Cup of Nations in 2004, believed they had sealed their progression just two minutes from the end of regular time, thanks to a superb strike from Firas Chaouat (1-0, 88th minute).

This seemed a logical outcome for Sami Trabelsi's side, who, despite their struggles in front of goal, had largely dictated play since Mali defender Wolo Coulibaly's early dismissal in the 26th minute for a challenge on Hannibal Mejbri.

The sending-off capped a feisty opening twenty minutes, characterised by numerous infringements. In their 16th encounter (seven wins for Tunez, five for Mali, and three draws prior to Saturday's match), both teams had clearly sought to assert their physical dominance.

South African referee Tom Abongile was kept busy, issuing two yellow cards to each team. Reduced to ten men, the Malians found themselves under relentless pressure, bravely resisting until Chaouat's subtle finish finally broke their resolve.

However, in a desperate surge during stoppage time, Belgian coach Tom Saintfiet's players earned a free-kick, leading to a handball by Yassine Meriah within the box.

Mali's leading scorer in the tournament, Lassine Sinayoko, duly converted the ensuing penalty, registering his third goal of the competition (1-1, 90+6th minute). Extra time largely replicated the pattern of regular play, with Tunez mounting an incessant but ultimately fruitless assault on the Mali penalty area.

The stage was then set for Djigui Diarra to complete Mali's improbable yet triumphant evening, securing their passage to face Senegal on January 9th, who had earlier overcome Sudan (3-1).

F. Chaouat

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