Mali will face tournament hosts South Africa in the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations quarter-finals after playing out a 1-1 draw with the Democratic Republic of Congo on Monday.

The result was enough for the Eagles to claim second place in Group B, behind Ghana who had beaten Niger 3-0 at the same time.

Congo grabbed the lead after just 35 seconds when Momo Sissoko was brought down by Yves Diba, which allowed Dieumerci Mbokani to slot home from the spot.

Mali responded well though and saw Mahamadou Samassa equalise in the 14th minute to ensure that they got the point they needed for victory.

The goal allowed the Malians to settle on the ball while Seydou Keita was putting some dangerous passes into the area - although none of his teammates were on hand to provide a finish.

Youssouf Mulumbu was tasked with trying to control the former Barcelona midfielder, but the West Bromwich Albion midfielder was booked for his troubles.

Keita then responded with a rugby tackle on the DR Congo midfielder and earned a yellow card of his own. Keita provided a perfect pass for Modibo Maiga soon after but he failed to head home from close range.

Tresor Mputu Mabi was brought on for LuaLua as Congo looked for victory after the break but the combination of Samba Diakite, Keita and Sissoko ensured that the Mali defence had more than enough cover.

Mulumbu forced the goalkeeper into a decent save while the Eagles almost snatched a late win through Kalilou Traore who saw his header hit the outside of the post.

The result ensures that Mali will now face a tough task against Bafana Bafana in Durban on Saturday.

Standard Bank Moment of the Match: After conceding early, Mali responded brightly and Samassa tapped in a cross from Adama Tamboura to secure their place in the next round.