Mali started their Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a decisive victory over South Africa, with goals from Hamari Traore and Lassine Sinayoko sealing a 2-0 win. The match, played at the Amadou Gon Coulibaly Stadium in Korhogo, marked Mali’s third consecutive Afcon triumph over South Africa, having previously beaten them in 2002 and 2013.
Despite South Africa’s promising start and early threats, the momentum shifted when Percy Tau missed a penalty in the 18th minute. The Al Ahly forward, who is the reigning CAF Interclub Player of the Year, sent his effort over the bar. Tau’s misfortune continued as he blazed another shot wide within the next 10 minutes.
Mali took advantage of their opportunities in the second half, with Traore tapping in the rebound after Sekou Koita’s free-kick hit the woodwork. Sinayoko extended the lead further by rifling in a shot from inside the box, securing victory for the 1972 finalists.
The result places Mali at the top of Group E, ahead of Namibia, who earlier stunned Tunisia with a 1-0 victory, marking their first-ever Afcon win.
South Africa struggled to find attacking finesse and faced routine saves from Mali goalkeeper Djigul Diarra. The disjointed opponents, showing signs of tiredness, were unable to create significant chances in the second half.
Despite Teboho Mokoena’s last-minute free-kick hitting the post, Mali held firm, dominating the match against their weary opponents. Mali, ranked 51st and considered dark horses in the tournament, will face Tunisia in their next match on Saturday.
Meanwhile, South Africa, managed by Broos, will take on Namibia on Sunday in their bid to bounce back in the competition. Namibia, with 10 players in their squad plying their trade in South Africa, will aim to build on their surprising victory against Tunisia.