Tunisia clawed their way back from a goal down to earn a 1-1 draw against Mali on Saturday, but their Africa Cup of Nations knockout stage hopes remain precariously balanced on a knife's edge heading into their final group E match. The Eagles of Carthage, stung by a shock 1-0 defeat to Namibia in their opener, desperately needed a win against a Mali side buoyed by a comfortable 2-0 victory over South Africa. However, it was Mali who drew first blood just ten minutes in, Lassine Sinayoko pouncing to pile the pressure on the north Africans. But Tunisia, champions back in 2004, refused to buckle. Hamza Rafia struck back with a crucial equalizer just ten minutes later, injecting a much-needed dose of belief into the team. Despite pushing for a winner, Tunisia were ultimately forced to settle for a point, leaving Mali atop the group with four points. With Namibia and South Africa's clash in the "SADC Derby" still to come, Tunisia's fate hangs in the balance. The draw leaves Tunisia in a tricky spot for a place in the last 16. They now face a must-win clash against South Africa on Wednesday, knowing that only a victory will give them hope of their progressing. While a draw against Mali might appear disappointing, their ability to fight back after going behind offers a glimmer of hope. Should they summon the same spirit and determination against Bafana Bafana, qualification remains tantalisingly within reach.