Mali got off to a flying start with an emphatic 2-0 win over South Africa in a Group E opener of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations played at the Amadou Gon Coulibaly Stadium on Tuesday.

Second Half Goals from Hamari Traoré and Lassine Sinayoko compounded a miserable night for South Africa.

Early in the first half Percy Tau had an opportunity to put South Africa in the lead from the penalty spot after a VAR review. An elbow to the face on Evidence Makgopa was missed by the on-field referees but the VAR was quick to spot the incident.

However, the Bafana Bafana captain ballooned his effort over the bar much to the delight of Malians.

The Eagles grew in confidence from that and eventually took the lead on the hour mark with Traoré slotting home from close range.

The Malian captain made no mistake to register himself on the scoresheet taking advantage of a lapse in defense.

Moments later Sinayoko doubled the lead poking home with his right foot past Ronwen Williams. Again South Africa were caught out as they tried to build from the back and were heavily punished.

Mali took control from there on and rightfully ascended to the top of Group E with three points secured after the final whistle.

Kelvin Trudeau Musako

Football Journalist | TotalEnergies AFCON 2021 Photographer | Media Officer - Kabwe Warriors FC | Graphic Designer | Videographer