Hamza Rafia secured Tunisia’s first point in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations with a first-half goal, ensuring a draw against Mali.
Rafia capitalized on Ali Abdi’s cross, directing it past goalkeeper Djigui Diarra.
Despite Mali taking an initial lead through Lassine Sinayoko, they were on the verge of reaching the last 16.
Kamory Doumbia nearly restored their lead, narrowly missing a shot six minutes into the second half.
With Mali topping Group D with 4 points, their path to the knockout stages looks promising.
They need to confirm their group standing or secure qualification in the final group game against Namibia.
In another Group D clash, Angola triumphed 3-2 against a resilient Mauritanian side.
The win propelled Palancas Negras to the top spot with four points after drawing 1-1 against Algeria.
Mauritania faced back-to-back defeats following a 1-0 loss to Burkina Faso.
Gelson Dala, with two goals, and Gilberto contributed to Angola’s victory, while Aboubakary Koita narrowed the deficit for Mauritania.
In a thrilling encounter, Algeria salvaged a 2-2 draw against Burkina Faso with a stoppage-time goal.
Burkina Faso, regretfully, missed a chance to secure qualification in advance and must now aim for a favorable result against Angola in their final group game.
Algeria, confident after the draw, will look to capitalize on facing Mauritania, who suffered a 1-0 loss to Burkina Faso in their opener.