Mali make statement as Kenya edge Cote d’Ivoire in U23 AFCON qualifiers

Mali produced the standout result in the opening matches of the second round of the U23 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, winning 3-0 away to Zimbabwe.

Kenya also claimed a first-leg advantage, beating Cote d’Ivoire 2-1 in a closely contested encounter. The other completed fixture ended goalless, with South Sudan holding Senegal to a 0-0 draw.

The results offer an early indication of the teams best placed ahead of the return fixtures, although the ties remain open as the qualifiers continue.

The evening’s programme is not yet complete. Algeria are due to face Eswatini, while Cameroon are also among the teams taking part in the early-evening action.

The remaining matches will add to the developing picture before the second legs, with the competing sides aiming to secure progress to the final phase.

Results

Zimbabwe 0-3 Mali

South Sudan 0-0 Senegal

Kenya 2-1 Cote d’Ivoire