Mali unconvincingly beat Benin

Mali won their opening game in Group B by one goal to nil against Benin.

A Freedie Kanoute penalty after 49 minutes is what clinched it for Mali. A very blow par performance from Mali was still enough to steal the 3 points that takes them level top with Ivory Coast in group B.

It was a game of few chances, the best chance for Benin came after 15 minutes when Seidath Tchomogo headed over from close range.

Mamady Sidibe fluffed his chance of doubling Mali's lead on 75 minutes while Mahamadou Diarra forced a save from Rachad Chitou with a long shot.