Ghana and Mali claim last quarter-final spots

GHANA and Mali became the final two teams to book their places in the quarter-finals of the African Nations Cup on Wednesday.

Ghana, who made the last eight of the World Cup in 2010, gained a 1-1 draw against Guinea to top the group and the Black Stars, now 5-2 second-favourites behind 5-4 Ivory Coast, have been rewarded with a clash against Tunisia, who finished runners-up in Group C for a place in the semi-finals.

Mali had to come from behind to beat Botswana and had a 75th-minute goal from Barcelona midfielder Seydou Keita to thank for helping them progress.

However, they will face a tough task to beat co-hosts Gabon, now 6-1 for continental glory, who won all their games in Group C.