Mali beat Cape Verde 3-1 to make winning start in 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying

Mali began their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a 3-1 victory over Cape Verde on Friday, 25 September 2026.

The Eagles controlled much of the match at the Stade du 26 Mars in Bamako, securing three important points in Group K and making an ideal start under new manager Anthony Da Silva.

Mali took the lead after only five minutes when Mamady Tia found the net. Cape Verde responded five minutes later through Steven Lopes Cabral, but the hosts regained the advantage before half-time.

Dorgeles Nene restored Mali’s lead in the 39th minute, giving his side a 2-1 advantage at the break after an open first half.

The forward completed his double five minutes after the restart. Kamory Doumbia released him on a swift counter-attack, and Dorgeles Nene finished clinically with his right foot in the 50th minute.

Mali went on to control the closing stages, having enjoyed 62% possession and created numerous attempts. Cape Verde offered little attacking threat after the interval and were unable to trouble the Mali defence as the Blue Sharks slipped to defeat on the opening matchday.

The result leaves Mali second in Group K after the first round of matches. They trail Rwanda, who moved top on goal difference after beating Liberia 3-1.

Cape Verde and Liberia are both without a point, setting up what is expected to be a closely contested battle for the group’s two qualifying places.