Mali pulled off a major upset by defeating Senegal 88-80 in the semifinals of Afrobasket 2025 in Luanda, securing a place in their first-ever final.
Led by Mahamane Coulibaly’s 23 points, alongside key contributions from Oumar Ballo with 19 points and Siriman Kanouté with 15 points and 8 assists, the Eagles overturned their earlier group-stage loss to Senegal.
Their strong defensive display, 28 defensive rebounds, and 11 steals, combined with efficient three-point shooting, proved decisive.
Senegal, despite efforts from Jean Jacques Boissy with 19 points and Brancou Badio with 15, struggled after Aliou Diarra’s early exit due to foul trouble.
Mali will now face hosts Angola in the final, after the eleven-time champions edged Cameroon 74-73 in a tight semifinal.
Angola is chasing a record-extending 12th AfroBasket crown and its first title since 2013, while Senegal and Cameroon will battle for third place.
Afrobasket 2025, held from August 12 to 24 in Angola, brings together the 16 best teams on the continent, with the championship match set for Sunday, August 24, 2025.
