AFCON: Tunisia Appeal To CAF For Replay of Match Against Mali

Tunisia's Group F game descended into chaos after centre referee Janny Sikazwe blew for full time twice in the 85th and 89th minute

The game was restarted but then ended early with 20 seconds remaining as Tunisia then refused to come out with referee meaning Mali won the game 1-0.

The Carthage Eagles have now filed an appeal to CAF calling for the replay of the Group F encounter.

Tunisia have made an appeal to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to replay their AFCON group F opening game against Mali after the match was ended abruptly by center referee Janny Sikazwe.

Mali were 1-0 up after Ibrahima Kone scored a spot-kick when the center referee blew the final whistle early. 

The Zambian referee had controversially ended the game in the 85th minute but resumed play again for just four minutes before blowing the final whistle with the time just on the 89th minute of the game. 

That decision would however spark protest from the Tunisian bench as both the Technical crew and officials had to be restrained when making a protest to the referee.

According to Grassroots Reporters, Mali coach Mohamed Magassouba's post-match press conference was later interrupted as it was announced the final three minutes of the game would be played. 

About 40 minutes later the Mali players and officials returned to the pitch but the Tunisian players refused as they had reportedly already had their ice baths.

In the aftermath, Tunisia coach Mondher Kebaier slammed the decision as 'inexplicable' and the nation have now called for the game to be replayed, according to the Daily Mail. 

Mali will be in a strong position to advance into the knockout stages of the competition for the second tournament running should CAF rule against the Tunisians.