Afcon 2023: Namibia 0-0 Mali – Brave Warriors reach last 16 for first time by holding Group winners

Namibia booked a first ever appearance in the last 16 of the African Cup of Nations by holding a Mali side who topped Group E by virtue of the point.

The Brave Warriors will take on Group D winners Angola in the first knock-out round while Mali face Burkina Faso.

The result kept host nation Ivory Coast sweating over their progression hopes.

The Elephants, who finished third in Group A, are left relying on results in Group F later on Wednesday to determine whether they will qualify or face an embarrassing early exit.

Mali negotiated the group stage unbeaten, with South Africa’s 0-0 draw with Tunisia in the group’s other final game ensuring the Eagles claimed top spot.

Namibia, meanwhile, survived a late onslaught from the West Africans to emulate fellow minnows Mauritania’s achievement of reaching the knock-out stages for the first time.

Their game with Angola will kick off the last 16 on Saturday in Bouake while Mali meet Burkina Faso in Korhogo on Tuesday (both matches 17:00 GMT).

More to follow.