Senegal secured a dramatic 5-4 penalty shootout victory over Mali on Sunday, May 24, 2026, at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Rabat to advance to the semifinals of the U17 Africa Cup of Nations. The match ended 2-2 after extra time.
Mali took the lead in the first half through a goal by Ibrahim Diarra in the 25th minute. Senegal equalized early in the second half via a strike from Amara Diouf in the 48th minute. Mali regained the advantage with a goal by Ousmane Thiero in the 72nd minute, but Senegal's Mamadou Gning leveled the score again in the 85th minute, forcing extra time.
Neither side could break the deadlock in extra time, leading to penalties. Senegal converted all five of their spot kicks, while Mali missed one, sending the Lionceaux through to the last four.
Senegal will now face Morocco in the semifinals on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at the same venue. Morocco qualified after topping Group A with a perfect record.
