In a thrilling quarter-final match at the Africa Cup of Nations, Mali stunned the hosts Ivory Coast with a last-minute victory. The match was filled with drama and excitement as both teams fought hard for a spot in the semi-finals.
The game took a dramatic turn when Odilon Kossounou of Ivory Coast was sent off in the first half for two bookable offences, including conceding a penalty that was subsequently missed by Adama Traoré. Despite being a man down, Ivory Coast managed to hold off Mali’s attempts to capitalize on their numerical advantage until Ivorian-born midfielder Nene Dorgeles scored what seemed to be the winning goal just after the 70th minute mark.
However, the match took an unexpected twist as Brighton’s Simon Adingra scored a dramatic equalizer in the final minute of normal time, forcing the game into extra time. Oumar Niakite then secured the victory for Ivory Coast by diverting Seko Fofana’s shot into the net just as the prospect of a penalty shootout loomed. The euphoria of the winning goal led to Niakite receiving a red card for removing his shirt in celebration, and tensions flared as several Mali players confronted the referee.
The dramatic victory has propelled Ivory Coast into the semi-finals, where they will face DR Congo with newfound momentum on their side. The team’s ability to grind out results and stage late comebacks has been a recurring theme throughout the tournament, showcasing their resilience and determination.
As the Africa Cup of Nations continues, the captivating performances and unexpected outcomes highlight the fierce competition and unpredictability that have made the tournament a thrilling spectacle for football fans around the world.
