Mali qualified for the AFCON 2025 knockout stages as Group A runners-up following a goalless draw with Comoros, who were eliminated from the competition despite a stellar performance from their goalkeeper.
Mali secured their progression to the Africa Cup of Nations Round of 16 following a 0-0 draw against Comoros on Monday night at the Mohamed V Stadium.
Finishing as Group A runners-up, the Eagles dominated much of the encounter but were unable to find a breakthrough.
They are now scheduled to face the runners-up of Group C on January 3 in Casablanca, while Comoros exit the tournament after finishing third with two points.
The match was defined by the “goalkeeping heroics” of Comoros shot-stopper Yannick Pandor, who made several crucial saves to keep his side in the contest.
Pandor denied Kamory Doumbia in the 18th minute before pulling off a “fantastic save” to thwart a 41st-minute effort from Yves Bissouma.
Despite introducing record goalscorer El Fardou Ben in the second half, the Coelacanths struggled to create clear-cut opportunities against a disciplined Malian backline.
The final minutes of the match saw heightened tension as Mali were reduced to 10 players in the 89th minute following the dismissal of Amadou Haidara.
Despite the numerical disadvantage, the Eagles stood firm during the closing stages to maintain their unbeaten status in the group.
Comoros’ efforts to snatch a late victory and keep their tournament dreams alive were ultimately frustrated by a lack of clinical finishing in the final third.