Mali came from behind twice to beat Rwanda 3-2 in Bamako and make it three wins from three in the Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualifying campaign.

The Aigles secured victory in Friday’s third-round match at the Stade du 26 Mars, despite Rwanda taking the lead on two occasions.

Rwanda broke the deadlock in the 29th minute with one of the Amavubi’s few clear chances. They did so despite having only 14% possession.

Mali, who had been the more active side from the start, levelled just before half-time. A powerful free-kick was pushed away by Rwanda goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari, but Amadou Haidara headed the rebound back into the danger area, allowing Kamory Doumbia to finish from close range in the 44th minute.

The hosts then struck the woodwork twice before Rwanda regained the advantage in the 54th minute.

Moussa Yeo had been denied by the crossbar five minutes earlier, but he made no mistake in the 63rd minute to bring Mali level for a second time. Lassine Sinayoko created the opportunity for him.

Mali completed the turnaround when substitute Mamadou Camara headed Daouda Guindo’s well-delivered corner in at the near post.

The result follows Mali’s wins over Cape Verde, whom they beat 3-1, and Liberia, who they defeated 1-0, at the end of September.

Anthony da Silva’s side now sit alone at the top of Group K, with the return fixture against Rwanda scheduled for next Tuesday in Kigali.