Mali head coach Tom Saintfiet did not hold back following his team’s 1-1 stalemate with Egypt in their second Group A match at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Real Madrid’s Brahim Diaz put the Atlas Lions ahead before the half-hour mark from the penalty spot, but Lassine Sinayoko restored parity for the Eagles in the 64th minute with a spot-kick of his own.
Saintfiet was visibly frustrated after his side was denied a second penalty, which he insists mirrored the first. “It’s a shame the referee didn’t see the (second) handball, as it was exactly the same situation as the first penalty. But I am proud of my team,” he said.
Mali’s draw leaves them with just one point from two games, meaning they must secure a win in their final group match to keep hopes of reaching the knockout stage alive.
