2023 AFCON: Namibia v Mali report

by Staff Reporter

Wednesday Jan 24, 2024. 21:14

Following their final match in Group E at the Africa Cup of Nations, Namibia secured their spot in the Round of 16 at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations on Wednesday night, following a 0-0 draw with Mali at Stade de San Pédro.

Date: 24 January 2024

Namibia 0

Mali 0

Namibia: Kazapua, Hanamub, Haukongo, Amutenya, Kamberipa, Petrus, Hotto, Katua (Hambira 89’), Tjiueza (Papama 79’), Muzeu (Limbondi 74’), Shalulile (Haoseb 90’)

Mali: D.Diarra, M.Diarra (Dante 68’), Niakate, Kouyate, Traore, Dorgeles, Bissouma, Dieng (Camara 68’), Diabate (Traore 81’), Sinayoko (Sissoko 52’), Niakate (Doumbia 53’)

Mali looked dangerous from the word go as Yves Bissouma produced the first shot at goal for his nation. As the half-progressed, Namibia grew in confidence and produced a couple of goal scoring chances of their own.

Prins Tjiueza produced one of the best chances for Namibia in the first half, after his shot inside the area was saved by the Mali goalkeeper after 16 minutes on the clock. Mali on the other hand, threatened from set-piece situations but were let down by poor finishing in the box.

Both sides struggled to create any notable scoring chances for much of the second-half, with Mali bossing the possession count. Battling to get into the game, Namibia found themselves defending on the edge of their own box for much of the second 45.

Nonetheless, Namibia held on despite Mali piling on the pressure toward the final whistle. The result saw Namibia join South Africa and Mali in the Round of 16, while the Carthage Eagles slumped to the bottom of Group E after their 0-0 draw with Bafana Bafana.