Mali made a solid start to their 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign with a 2-0 win over South Africa.
Both teams fought to assert dominance from the beginning of the encounter, with South Africa missing a penalty opportunity to take the early lead in the 19th minute.
While the first half saw limited goal-scoring opportunities for both sides, it was Mali that broke the deadlock in the 61st minute.
Hamari Traoré capitalized on a free-kick that hit the goalpost, giving his team the lead. Just five minutes later, Lassine Sinayoko extended Mali’s advantage with a fine finish.
The win took Mali to the top of Group E with three points, while South Africa find themselves at the bottom with zero points.
Earlier on Tuesday evening, Tunisia lost 1-0 to Namibia, sharing the last two spots with South Africa.
