Dorgeles Nene double puts Mali second in Group K after Cape Verde win

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

The Eagles controlled much of the match at Stade du 26 Mars and secured an important result in Group K 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 the home side a 2-1 advantage at the interval after an entertaining opening period.

The forward completed his double shortly after the restart. Kamory Doumbia released him during a swift counter-attack, and Nene produced a precise right-footed finish in the 50th minute to put Mali firmly in control.

Mali finished the match with 62% possession and continued to create opportunities as they managed the closing stages. Cape Verde offered little attacking threat after the break and were unable to trouble the Malian defence.

The result leaves Mali second in Group K after the opening round of qualifying. Rwanda occupy top spot on goal difference following their 3-1 victory over Liberia.

Cape Verde and Liberia are level at the bottom with no points, while the battle for the two qualifying places has already begun with all four teams involved.