AFCON: Mali 1-2 Ivory Coast

Hosts Ivory Coast staged another remarkable Africa Cup of Nations escape as Oumar Diakite's 122nd-minute winner propelled the 10-man Elephants into the semi-finals at the expense of a heartbroken Mali.

Despite playing with a numerical disadvantage for most of the game after Odilon Kossounou's first-half dismissal, Ivory Coast fell behind to Nene Dorgeles' classy curler. However, Simon Adingra's opportunistic finish on the stroke of 90 minutes equalized, and Diakite's last-kick-of-extra-time goal secured a dramatic 2-1 victory.

Diakite's joy was tempered by a second yellow card for removing his shirt in celebration, resulting in a ban for the semi-final against DR Congo. The final whistle saw unsavory scenes as Mali players confronted the referee, leading to Hamari Traore's red card for excessive protests.

The decisive goal, scored by Diakite, sparked wild celebrations at the Stade de la Paix, with Fofana's shot deftly redirected into the net. This victory keeps the hosts' hopes of a third Afcon title alive after a tumultuous journey through the competition, marked by last-minute victories and managerial changes.

Ivory Coast had survived the group stage by a narrow margin and faced challenges in the knockout stages under interim boss Emerse Fae. Despite Kossounou's second yellow card before half-time, they defended resiliently, with goalkeeper Yahia Fofana saving a penalty and limiting Mali to long-range efforts.

Dorgeles put Mali ahead, but Ivory Coast responded admirably, with Adingra stabbing home from close range. The Elephants created better chances in extra time, with Diakite's late heroics settling the match.

However, Ivory Coast faces challenges in the semi-final, missing Diakite, Serge Aurier, and Christian Kouame due to suspensions from accumulated bookings.

Mali, who had never lost an Afcon quarter-final before, will likely face scrutiny for post-match scenes. They failed to capitalize on their numerical advantage and exhibited defensive nervousness after taking the lead. Despite having topped their group, Mali's exit marks another defeat against their West African neighbors, leaving Eric Chelle's side disappointed.