By FARAI Cheuka
South Africa lost its opening game of the CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) on Tuesday (16 January), falling to Mali 2-0 inside Amadou Gon Coulibaly Stadium.
The Bafana Bafana are seeking a second title in the 2024 tournament in Côte d’Ivoire. The tournament is set for 13 January to 11 February.
South Africa had an early opportunity to strike on a penalty kick in the 19th minute. Team leader Percy Tau stepped up to take it, but missed.
At half, the match was scoreless.
Mali took control the in the second half, firing off two goals in quick succession as Hamari Traore, 60th minute, and Lassine Sinayoko, 66th minute, gave them a 2-0 lead with less than 30 minutes of play remaining. It was a lead that Mali never relinquished.
South Africa continues its Group E play on Sunday as they lineup against Namibia. Next up for the squad from Mali is Tunisia. That match is scheduled for Saturday 20 January.
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Source: Olympics.com
