A Tale Of Two Penalties As Mali Upset Lethargic Tunisians But AFCON Errors Persi

What was supposed to be a commendable win by Mali has been overshadowed by several errors by AFCON and referee Sikazwe. The Eagles of Mali caused a minor AFCON upset after scrapping a 1-0 win over Africa's fourth highest ranked country in Limbe Cameroon. Tunisia came into the match as one of the competition favorites with a world ranking position of 30, 23 places above opponents Mali. But it was the Malians who drew first blood after Ibrahim Kone netted from the spot just over 2 minutes after the break. The goal seemed to jolt the Eagles of Carthage into life, having endured a subdued first half with only 2 attempts compared to Mali's 7. After commanding proceedings in the second half, the Malian rearguard eventually yielded to the mounting pressure when they conceded a penalty from a Moussa Djenepo infringement. Captain Whabi Khazri stepped up to the responsibility but was denied by an inspired brahim Mounkoro who dived correctly to his right to deny Saint-Etienne striker. The game contained at least one more twist before full-time as Mali's El Bilal Torure was controversially sent off for a tackle on Dylan Bronn. The challenge on replays appeared innocuous, but despite being afforded the insight of a second viewing, 42-year-old Zambian referee, Janny Sikazwe, refused to rescind his red card decision.

Use The App To Win ₦1m

Stories are shared by community members. This article does not represent the official view of NaijaWorld — the author is solely responsible for its content.