Mali take on Senegal in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final at the Grand Stade de Tanger on Friday.
The Eagles defeated Tunisia 3-2 on penalties in the round of 16, while the Teranga Lions beat Sudan 3-1.
Match preview
After failing to win a game in the group stage, Mali came from behind to draw 1-1 with Tunisia despite being reduced to 10 men, before prevailing on penalties.
Mali have adopted a defensive and aggressive approach, ranking first for tackles and interceptions per game. They have received the most yellow and red cards.
Senegal have been far more enterprising. They rank first for shots on target per game, second for goals scored and third for big chances created.
The Teranga Lions once again showed their brilliant attacking display against Tanzania, coming from behind to claim a dominant victory.
Pape Thiaw’s side are favourites for this clash but will need to be at their best.
Head-to-head
The only encounter between Mali and Senegal at this tournament ended in a 1-1 draw in 2004.
Senegal lead the overall head-to-head 19-8, while 13 matches have ended in draws.
Team news
Mali will be without Woyo Coulibaly, who is suspended, and Lassana Coulibaly due to injury.
Senegal head into this clash with a clean bill of health. Kalidou Koulibaly returns from suspension.
Predicted line-ups
Mali (4-2-3-1): Djigui Diarra, Hamari Traore, Abdoulaye Diaby, Mamadou Fofana, Amadou Dante, Yves Bissouma, Aliou Dieng, Mamadou Sangare, Lassine Sinayoko, Mamadou Doumbia, El Bilal Toure.
Senegal (4-3-3): Edouard Mendy, Krepin Diatta, Abdoulaye Seck, Moussa Niakhate, Ismail Jakobs, Pape Gueye, Idrissa Gueye, Sadio Mane, Iliman Ndiaye, Ismaila Sarr, Nicolas Jackson.
Prediction
We expect Senegal to triumph 2-1.
Stats from sofascore.com.
