A self-proclaimed marabout was arrested in Bamako for allegedly defrauding football fans by promising victory for the Mali national team at the Africa Cup of Nations. The man, identified as Mr Sinayogo, reportedly collected over 22 million CFA francs, roughly €33,500, from supporters before Mali’s 1-0 quarter-final defeat to Senegal. He is now being held by the cybercrime division on charges of fraud. Two videographers who visited him confirmed his detention, noting that authorities had delayed action while the tournament was ongoing. According to a social media content creator close to Sinayogo, the man, formerly a political activist, “proclaimed himself a marabout overnight and made a fortune.” Mali’s hopes of reaching the semi-finals ended in Tangiers on January 9 when recalled Senegal striker Iliman Ndiaye scored in the first half. The match turned further against Mali when captain Yves Bissouma was sent off in first-half added time after receiving a second yellow card. Mali goalkeeper Djigui Diarra made a string of outstanding saves, but a costly error allowed Senegal to take the lead. Senegal, the 2022 champions, will face either title-holders Ivory Coast or seven-time winners Egypt in the semi-finals. Ndiaye, who was named player of the match, said, “I am happy to have won the award, but the most important thing is we have progressed to the semi-finals. We played well and are constantly improving.” Senegal coach Pape Thiaw added, “It was not an easy match against a talented Mali team. Had we been more clinical in front of goal we could have scored more goals.” Mali coach Tom Saintfiet said, “It was a difficult match for us because we had to play with 10 men. I am proud of the players for what they did, not only tonight but throughout the AFCON.” Earlier in the match, Bissouma was yellow-carded for fouling Senegal forward Sadio Mane, while Mali striker Lassine Sinayoko was denied by a brilliant sliding tackle from Senegal’s Krepin Diatta.
