The big moment in extra time came when Chaouat tapped Abdi’s cross into the net in the 106th minute, but the left-back had strayed offside when following up a low effort from Ellyes Skhiri which Diarra could only palm away.
The penalty shootout, played out in driving rain with animated coaching staff getting a soaking on the touchline, was a rollercoaster affair and Diarra’s two saves proved crucial in turning the tide after Mali trailed 2-1 after three rounds.
Besiktas frontman Toure had a penalty saved in the first half of Mali’s opener against Zambia on 22 December, but showed composure to send Dahmen the wrong way before ripping off his shirt as he sparked celebrations for the Eagles.
Mali are yet to reflect the full extent of their undeniably talented squad in their performances in Morocco, having reached the last eight without recording a victory.
But having now received red cards in their past two outings, Eagles coach Tom Saintfiet will need his side to improve their discipline when they come up against a Senegal side which has already found the back of the net 10 times at these finals.
Tunisia boss Sami Trabelsi, meanwhile, will be left to reflect on his side’s failure to capitalise on their numerical advantage.
The Carthage Eagles did not get past the group stage at the 2023 Afcon, but their last-16 exit in Morocco means the North Africans have still only recorded one semi-final appearance since lifting the trophy in 2004.
