This Tuesday, January 30, the eagerly expected derby between Mali and Burkina Faso took place at the Amadou Gon Coulibaly Stadium in Korhogo, which can house 20,000 spectators. In this critical encounter, the Malian Eagles booked their spot in the quarter-finals by defeating the Stallions with a 2-1 victory.
Mali, showing their current firm form, made an impressive beginning to the match. Bayer Leverkusen’s striker Edmond Tapsoba scored an early goal in the 3rd minute, setting the pace for the game. Auxerre’s forward Lassine Sinayoko added another goal for Mali in the 47th minute. Regardless, the match stayed tense, particularly after Burkina Faso’s Aston Villa striker Bertrand Traore lowered the deficit with a goal in the 57th minute. Mali, mindful of their history of not advancing past the round of 16 in the last four editions of the African Cup of Nations, managed to hold on to their lead this time.
On the other hand, Burkina Faso, having attained the semi-finals in two of the last three AFCON editions, could not replicate their past successes. They struggled with offensive limitations and defensive weaknesses, culminating in another loss and a disappointing elimination from the tournament.
Looking ahead, Mali is set to meet Ivory Coast, the host country and winner over the reigning champions Senegal, in the quarter-finals. This match is planned for Saturday at the Stade de Bouaké, starting at 6:00 p.m.
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