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Ivory Coast orchestrated a sensational upset against Mali, securing their spot in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations semi-finals with a thrilling 2-1 triumph. Adama Traore’s missed penalty for Mali set the stage for a rollercoaster of emotions.
Nene Dorgeles appeared to seal the victory with a second-half goal, but Mali’s Simon Adingra shattered Ivory Coast’s dreams with a last-minute equalizer. The tension escalated as the match approached the prospect of a penalty shootout.
In an extraordinary turn of events, Ivory Coast, despite being a man down, staged a remarkable comeback in extra time. The hosts, who had previously navigated a penalty shootout against Senegal, displayed resilience against Mali, who had secured a 2-1 victory over Burkina Faso in their knockout match.
The first half unfolded in chaos, with Sikou Niakate’s offside handball appeal and Adama Traore’s missed penalty after a foul on Lassine Sinayoko. The turmoil continued as Odilon Kossouna received a red card for another foul on Sinayoko just before halftime.
As the depleted Ivory Coast side fought against fatigue, Nene capitalized on the opportunity, unleashing a spectacular strike from 30 yards to claim the lead. However, Simon Adingra’s injury-time goal dashed their hopes of a regulation-time victory.
With extra time looming and no decisive breakthrough, the match teetered on the brink of penalties. Yet, in a dramatic twist, Oumar Diakite delivered a knockout blow in extra-time added time, propelling Ivory Coast to an unforgettable win and a place in the Africa Cup of Nations semi-finals.
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