Mali and South Africa Advance to the Africa Cup of Nations Quarter-finals

The final round of Group E did not bring much excitement, despite expectations for a more intense and unpredictable battle for a place among the continent’s top 16 teams. Mali, in their match against Namibia, failed to secure a second victory in the championship, but managed to clinch the top spot in Group E with a goalless draw, earning five points and advancing to the knockout stage. Meanwhile, Namibia theoretically retained a chance to progress as the best third-placed team with four points. Namibia’s secure spot in the round of 16 hinges on Congo winning or drawing against Tanzania in Group F, as well as Morocco defeating Zambia or drawing in their match. The game between South Africa and Tunisia also ended goalless, which secured the host of the 2010 World Cup the second position in the group. In the knockout stage, Mali will face Burkina Faso, while South Africa will play against the Group F winner. Later in the day, Tanzania will play against Congo, and Zambia will face Congo at 21:00.