Mali 2-0 South Africa: Eagles score two second half goals to stun Bafana Bafana after Percy Tau's penalty miss

Mali's impressive record continues as they remain undefeated in 13 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) opening matches, securing a hard-fought 2-0 victory against South Africa at the Amadou Gon Coulibaly Stadium.

The Group E opener started off with a lot of energy as Amadou Haidara attempted a spectacular shot to give Mali the lead, but his looping volley was saved by South Africa's goalkeeper, Ronwen Williams.

South Africa had some success on the left flank with Thapelo Maseko, and they earned a penalty when Sikou Niakate appeared to elbow Evidence Makgopa in the box from Maseko's cross.

However, Percy Tau's spot-kick was truly terrible, resembling something you would see in a Springboks match, as it sailed high into the sky.

Tau was disappointed but had a chance for redemption when he was brilliantly set up by Sphephelo Sithole, but he fired his shot straight at Diarra.

Just before halftime, Mali almost took the lead after a mix-up between Siyanda Xulu and Williams, but Lassine Sinayoko couldn't capitalize on the opportunity.

After the restart, Mali wasted another great chance to score, with Haidara missing his close-range attempt over the bar after some good teamwork with Falaye Sacko and Sekou Koita.

Finally, Mali broke the deadlock in the 60th minute when Koita's free-kick hit the underside of the bar and Hamari Traore reacted quickly to score.

Six minutes later, Sinayoko scored a second goal, overpowering Xulu and finishing clinically from Kamory Doumbia's perfectly weighted pass.

South Africa tried to mount a comeback but couldn't trouble Diarra as they failed to score in Korhogo. This victory was a morale boost for Mali, who are hoping to end their record of playing the most AFCON matches (55) without winning the tournament.