Mali’s AFCON 2025 campaign ended in disappointment after discipline issues once again ruined their chances. The West African side made unwanted history during their quarter-final clash against Senegal, where captain Yves Bissouma was sent off at a crucial moment.The red card changed the game completely and left Mali fighting an uphill battle.
A Turning Point Against Senegal
The match against Senegal was tense and closely contested. Mali were still in the game until Bissouma received a red card. His dismissal reduced the team to ten men at a critical stage.From that moment, Mali were forced to defend for long periods. Senegal took control of the match, while Mali struggled to keep their shape and energy. Despite their effort and determination, the numerical disadvantage proved too much to overcome.
A Record No Team Wants
Bissouma’s sending-off marked Mali’s fifth red card of AFCON 2025. This unwanted statistic means Mali now hold the record for the highest number of dismissals at the Africa Cup of Nations since the 2021 tournament.Throughout the competition, moments of poor judgment kept appearing. Each red card weakened the team and damaged their chances of going far in the tournament.
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Same Referee, Same Outcome
The red card against Senegal also continued a troubling pattern in Mali’s knockout matches. Referee Tom Abongile was once again involved.In the previous round against Tunisia, Abongile sent off Mali defender Coulibaly. Against Senegal, he dismissed Bissouma. This made it two straight knockout matches where a Mali player saw red under the same referee.While referees play their role, the repeated dismissals point more toward discipline problems within the team.Sometimes, it is not the opponent that stops a team, but the mistakes they keep making themselves.
Courage Undone by Mistakes
Mali showed heart and resilience in both knockout games. Even with ten men, they continued to fight and defend with pride. However, discipline once again stood in their way.Facing strong teams is difficult. Doing so while repeatedly losing players made their task almost impossible.
Final Thought
AFCON 2025 highlighted Mali’s talent and fighting spirit, but also exposed their biggest weakness. Until discipline matches their ability,Sometimes, it is not the opponent that stops a team, but the mistakes they keep making themselves. Mali’s dreams on Africa’s biggest football stage may continue to end in frustration rather than glory.