Anthony da Silva gives Mali winning start against Cape Verde

Anthony da Silva made a winning return to international management as Mali coach, guiding the Eagles past Cape Verde in the opening round of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. The result puts Mali at the top of Group K with three points and gives Da Silva an immediate platform after taking charge of the team.

Mali appointed the former Cameroon coach on 5 June 2026, replacing Tom Saintfiet. His first match in the role ended in a 3-1 victory at the Stade du 26 Mars, with Mali recovering from an early challenge to control the contest and secure the points.

Ange Tia opened the scoring after five minutes, but Cape Verde responded through Sidny Lopes Cabral in the 10th minute. Mali regained the lead before half-time when Dorgeles Nene scored in the 39th minute. The forward then struck again after the interval to complete the scoring and settle the match.

The victory starts a new qualifying campaign positively for Mali after the team’s appearance at the previous Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. Cape Verde, who had also enjoyed a strong recent international period with participation at the World Cup in the Americas, begin Group K without a point. Da Silva’s first assignment therefore delivers both three points and an early lead in the section.