Mali forward Abdoulaye Sissoko is pleased with his side’s fighting spirit as they booked a place in the quarterfinals of Chan.
The Malians were a goal down after the halftime break in their last group game against Mozambique on Sunday but they fought back to win 2-1.
They finished as Group A winners with seven points, ahead of second-placed Nigeria with six points, disgraced hosts South Africa with four points, and the Mambas, who exited the tournament with nothing.
“In the first half, we tried to put pressure to score,” Sissoko said.
“After, we slowed down a bit as we were facing the wind.
“We then went through a weaker stage and Mozambique took advantage of it by scoring.
“After, we tried to fight back but we struggled to do so. In the second half, we tried to trouble them to win the game.
“It has been difficult and we admit it. We qualified, we are pleased and we are going to prepare for our quarterfinal.”
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