Nene Dorgeles scores twice as Mali beat Cape Verde in CAN 2027 qualifier

Mali began their CAN 2027 qualifying campaign with a 3-1 victory over Cape Verde on Friday, with Nene Dorgeles scoring twice to secure three important points for the Eagles.

Mali took the lead after just five minutes when Ange Martial Tia found the net. Their advantage lasted only five minutes, however, as Sidny Cabral levelled for Cape Verde with a well-executed free-kick in the 10th minute.

The match settled after its lively opening, with Mali gradually regaining control. Dorgeles restored their lead in the 39th minute, putting his side back in front before the interval.

The Mali forward struck again six minutes after half-time, completing his double in the 51st minute and extending the score to 3-1.

Cape Verde tried to respond during the second half but could not find a way back into the game. Mali held on for a convincing opening win and immediately put themselves among the teams competing for the leading positions in their group.

The Eagles will face Liberia on 29 September.