Early Blow, Quick Turnaround: Tunisia’s AFCON Knockout Clash With Mali Takes an Unexpected Turn

Early setback for Tunisia in Mali clash

In the Africa Cup of Nations knockout stage in Morocco, Tunisia faced an early setback against Mali at Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca.

In the 10th minute, Dilan Brun attempted a high header to reset play for his goalkeeper Ayman Dahman but suffered an injury that forced him off the field, shortly after having been booked with a yellow card.

Moments later, the Tunisian coach Sami Tarabli made the first substitution in the 11th minute, bringing Yassine Meriah on for Brun.

The winner of today's tie will meet Senegal in the quarterfinals, after Senegal beat Sudan 3-1 earlier.

Historically, the teams have met 16 times; Tunisia has 7 wins, Mali 5, with 3 draws.

At AFCON level, they have met four times; Mali has not lost to Tunisia in those meetings, recording two wins and two draws.

Punchline 1: Brun took 'heading' a bit too literally—he’s now collecting a highlight reel in the physio’s notebook.

Punchline 2: If early injuries were a sport, Tunisia would be leading the league—they just promoted the medical staff to starter status.