All hell was let loose as the centre referee, Janny Zikazwe blew off the match between Tunisia and Mali apparently before actual full time as rampaging Tunisian officials surrounded the referee until security arrived.
The scenes became ugly as the Tunisians physically restrained the referee from exiting the field, It is expected that there will be heavy sanctions in the days ahead by CAF.
The match ended 1-0 in favour of Mali after Tunisia missed the opportunity to go level late on through the spot with star player, captain Wahbi KhaMali failing to bury his penalty kick, 15 minutes from time.
The Eagles of Mali had gone ahead when Ibrahima Kone scored from the spot two minutes into the second half after Ellyes Joris Skhiri was adjudged to have handled the ball inside the area.
The Malians were reduced to 10 men in the closing stages following El Bilal Toure’s heavy challenge on Skhiri of Tunisia.
The West Africans dominated proceeding in Limbé with their free-flowing football forcing the Carthage Eagles of Tunisia to sit deep for most of the proceedings.
Mali’s victory sends them to the top of the group before their second match against The Gambia on 16th January. The Scorpions will play Mauritania in the second match of Group F.
