Dorgeles Nene puts Mali in front against Cape Verde before half-time

Mali hold a 2-1 lead over Cape Verde at the interval in their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match at the Stade du 26 Mars in Bamako.

The hosts made a fast start, taking the lead in the fifth minute when Mamady Tia finished after being set up by Lassine Sinayoko.

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

Mali regained control before the break as Dorgeles Nene put them back in front in the 39th minute. Aliou Dieng provided the assist.

The first half has been played at a high tempo, with three goals coming in an action-packed opening 45 minutes.