In a thrilling match, Oumar Diakité’s stoppage-time goal secured a dramatic 2-1 victory for 10-man Ivory Coast over Mali, earning them a spot in the Africa Cup of Nations semifinals. Goalkeeper Ronwen Williams played heroically, saving four penalties in the shootout as South Africa advanced by beating Cape Verde 2-1 on penalties after a goalless draw in extra time.
Despite playing with nine players at the end of the match due to Diakité’s excessive celebrations, Ivory Coast completed a remarkable comeback. Simon Adingra’s 90th-minute equalizer sent the game to extra time, and Diakité scored the decisive goal in the 122nd minute.
Diakité’s second yellow card means he will miss the semifinal against Congo on Wednesday. Ivory Coast, after eliminating defending champion Senegal, showcased resilience throughout the tournament.
In the other quarterfinal, South Africa’s heroics continued as goalkeeper Ronwen Williams saved crucial penalties, leading them to a 2-1 shootout win over Cape Verde. South Africa will face Nigeria in the semifinals, marking their first Africa Cup semifinal appearance in 24 years.