The Eagles of Mali have stormed to the semi-finals of the Total African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2020 after beating Congo 5-4 on penalties.

After a goalless draw in 120 minutes, Mali were sharper in penalties sealing a place in the last four at the Ahmadou Ahidju Stadium in Yaounde on Saturday.

Mali had Mamadou Traore and Mouusa Kyabou miss good scoring opportunities earlier, while Gautrand Ngounimba also came close for the Red Devils of Congo Brazzaville.

After 112 minutes Congo’s substitute Yann Mokombo had a good chance when he dribbled past a defender in the box, but his shot was blocked for a corner.

But during the penalties Congo’s Prince Mouandzu Mapata placed the first penalty out, while all the Mali players converted. Issaka Samake, Moussa Kyabou, Makan Samabali, Mamadou Doumba and Mamadou Coulibaly all converted penalties for The Eagles of Mali.

Congo who also reached the quarter final stage in the 2018 CHAN tournament netted their penalties through Julfin Ondongo, Hardy Binguila, Yann Mokombo and goalkeeper Pavelh Ndzila.

It is the second time Mali’s team get to the semi-final stage of a CHAN tournament after finishing as runner ups in 2016.