Mali lead Cape Verde 2-1 at half-time in 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier

Mali hold a 2-1 half-time lead against Cape Verde in the opening round of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

The first half at Stade du 26 Mars in Bamako produced an intense and entertaining contest, with three goals scored during a lively opening 45 minutes.

The hosts struck first after five minutes when Mamady Tia finished to put Mali ahead, following a well-weighted pass from Lassine Sinayoko.

Cape Verde responded quickly, with Steven Lopes Cabral restoring parity in the 10th minute.

Mali regained the advantage nine minutes before the interval. Dorgeles Nene made it 2-1 in the 39th minute after being set up by Aliou Dieng.

The Eagles of Mali went into the break in front of the Blue Sharks.