Mali and Nigeria face off in the first semi-finals matchup in the 2013 Africa Cup.
Mali was never expected to make a deep run in the tournament. The squad made it out of group B with one win, one loss, and one draw and drew home squad South Africa in the quarter-final. Bafana Bafana struck first with a goal from Tokelo Rantie in the 31st minute, but Mali drew even in the second half with a goal from Seydou Keita; the goal was Keita's second in the tournament. The teams battled all the way to the shootout. The first two shooters scored on their chances but South Africa missed three straight penalties and eventually lost the game. The Mali shooters were Cheick Diabaté, Adama Tamboura, and Mahamane Traoré; all three scored.
Nigeria finished in second place in Group C and had the tough task of taking on title contender Ivory Coast. Emmanuel Emenike gave the Nigerians a lead at the 43 minute mark, but Cheick Tioté tied the score in the 50th minute. Sunday Mba gave Nigeria the game winner in the 78th minute.
Predictions: Mali barely got past South Africa while Nigeria took down a strong Ivory Coast side. Nigeria has a more potent offense to go with their strong defense; 2-0 Nigeria.
Start Time: 10 AM EST
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Nigeria Leads 3-0 at the half. Elderson (25') and Brown Ideye (30') were the goal scorers for Nigeria while Mohamed Sissoko (44' OG) added an own goal . Efe Ambrose (Nigeria) and Modibo Maiga (Mali) received Yellow Cards.