Rwanda suffered their first defeat in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers after Mali scored in the 84th minute to claim a 3-2 victory in Bamako on Friday.
The Amavubi twice went ahead at Stade du 26 Mars but could not hold on against a Mali side that maintained its winning record in Group K.
Jojea Kwizera gave Rwanda the lead in the 29th minute, converting a pass from Elie Tatou Iradukunda. Mali responded shortly before half-time when Kamory Doumbia scored from close range after Amadou Haidara had headed the ball across goal.
Rwanda restored their advantage in the 54th minute. Kwizera delivered the ball into the area from a corner routine, and Phanuel Kavita rose to head it past Mali goalkeeper Djigui Diarra.
The visitors then had a chance to make it 3-1, but Iradukunda’s effort was saved by Diarra.
Mali punished that missed opportunity by drawing level in the 63rd minute. Lassine Sinayoko set up Moussa Kounfolo Yeo, who beat Fiacre Ntwari to bring the home side back into the game.
The decisive goal came in the 84th minute when substitute Mamadou Camara headed in Daouda Guindo’s corner, completing Mali’s comeback and leaving Rwanda without a point from the match.
Mali now lead Group K with nine points from three matches. Rwanda are second on six points, followed by Cape Verde on three after their 4-2 win over Liberia. Liberia have yet to earn a point.
The defeat leaves Rwanda needing a response in the return fixture, which will also be their fourth group match. They host Mali at Stade Amahoro on Tuesday, November 17, with kick-off scheduled for 9 p.m.
A win would bring Rwanda level with Mali on nine points, while another defeat would leave the visitors with a six-point advantage in the group.
