Mali Move Closer to CHAN 2016 Quarter-Finals with Narrow Win Over Zimbabwe
Mali strengthened their hopes of reaching the quarter-finals of the 2016 African Nations Championship after edging Zimbabwe 1-0 in their second Group D match on Saturday.
The only goal of the game came late, with Moussa Cissoko capitalising on a well-delivered free kick to find the back of the net in the 80th minute. The strike proved decisive, securing Mali’s second consecutive result and putting them in a strong position to advance.
The victory gives the Local Eagles four points from two matches, following a 2-2 draw against Uganda in their opening fixture. With one more group game remaining, Mali will be looking to maintain momentum and secure qualification for the knockout stage.
Zimbabwe, meanwhile, exit the tournament after suffering their second defeat in Group D, having been unable to respond to Cissoko’s late winner. The Warriors’ early exit highlights the fine margins in CHAN competition and the importance of seizing scoring opportunities.
The second fixture in Group D on Saturday saw Zambia face Uganda. The Chipolopolo, already victorious against Zimbabwe in their first match, and the Cranes, who drew against Mali, will look to strengthen their positions in the group as they chase a place in the quarter-finals.
Mali’s disciplined performance and late breakthrough underline their growing confidence in the tournament, with Cissoko’s decisive contribution demonstrating the squad’s ability to deliver under pressure. The Local Eagles now control their destiny as they approach the final round of group-stage matches.
