AFCON 2023: Mali, South Africa complete quater final roster as Morocco suffer shock exit 

The roster of teams for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final stage is now complete following the crucial wins recorded on Tuesday by the Mali and South African national teams.

Mali booked their spot in the last eight with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Burkina Faso in Korhogo. 

An own goal by Edmond Tabsoba and a second-half strike by Lassine Sinayoko propelled the Eagles to victory despite a late penalty scare.

The game started with a bang as Tabsoba’s attempted clearance deflected into his own net just three minutes in. 

Burkina Faso nearly equalised through Kamory Doumbia, but his effort was saved by Kouakou Koffi. Sinayoko also saw a shot saved before the break, but Mali held a narrow lead.

Sinayoko doubled their advantage shortly after the restart, capitalising on a defensive lapse to slot home. 

Burkina Faso responded with a penalty converted by Bertrand Traoré, but Mali’s defense held firm to secure their place in the last eight, where they will face hosts Côte d’Ivoire on 3 February.

Bafana Bafana stun Atlas Lions

In a dramatic upset, South Africa stunned pre-tournament favorites Morocco 2-1 to reach the quarterfinals. 

Evidence Makgopa’s 57th-minute goal, which survived a VAR check, put Bafana Bafana ahead, and their lead grew when Sofyan Amrabat was sent off for Morocco late on.

Teboho Mokoena sealed the victory with a stunning free-kick, denying Achraf Hakimi’s chance to equalize from the penalty spot after Mothobi Mvala’s handball. 

This result sent shockwaves through the tournament, and South Africa will now face Cape Verde in the quarterfinals on February 3rd.

The Atlas Lions’ exit was preceded by the unceremonious exits of the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon and Senegal’s Teranga Lions.

Quarter-final fixtures 

Feb 2 

Nigeria vs Angola 

DR Congo vs Guniea 

Feb 3

Mali vs Ivory Cost 

Cape Verde vs South Africa