Mali pulled off one of the biggest upsets in African basketball history by defeating Senegal 88-80 in the semifinals of AfroBasket 2025 in Luanda, earning a place in their first-ever continental final. The Eagles, who had lost to Senegal in the group stage, bounced back in emphatic style thanks to a commanding performance from Mahamane Coulibaly, who led all scorers with 23 points. Center Oumar Ballo added 19 points and 7 rebounds, while captain Siriman Kanouté delivered 15 points and 8 assists to orchestrate Mali’s offense. Mali’s relentless defense proved decisive, registering 28 defensive rebounds and 11 steals, while their sharp three-point shooting kept Senegal chasing throughout the game.
Senegal struggled to regain rhythm after star forward Aliou Diarra was sidelined early with foul trouble. Despite Jean Jacques Boissy’s 19 points and Brancou Badio’s 15, the Lions could not withstand Mali’s pace and intensity. The victory sets up a dream final for Mali, who will face hosts Angola on Sunday, August 24. Angola, an eleven time champion, edged Cameroon 74-73 in a dramatic semifinal to keep alive their chase for a record extending 12th AfroBasket crown and their first title since 2013.Meanwhile, Senegal and Cameroon will play for third place as AfroBasket 2025 held from August 12 to 24 in Angola comes to a thrilling conclusion.
