Mali will face Democratic Republic of Congo in the final of the 2016 African Nations Championship after beating Cote d’Ivoire 1-0 in a thrilling semi-final on Thursday evening.
Yves Bissouma’s 89th minute strike was all the Eagles needed to fly pass the Elephants in Stade Régional Nyamirambo, Kigali, Rwanda.
It was an end to end match and both sides had their chances to wrap up the game, but a youthful Malian side prevailed at the end.
DR Congo, champions of the inaugural edition in 2009, defeated Guinea 5-4 on penalties in the other semi-final game played on Wednesday.
Mali who are yet to taste defeat in the tournament, will be hoping for their first title in three attempts.
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s Chisom Chikatara on four goals, will most likely win the top-scorers award – with his other rivals also out of the competition.
The final will be played on Sunday at the Amahoro Stadium , Kigali. That will be preceded by the third-place play-off between Guinea and the Ivoirians.
