A well taken free kick by Issaka Samake cancelled out Charles Banga Bidjeme’s early strike for Cameroon as the game ended in a one-all draw.
The result means Cameroon and Mali are joint top of group A on four points apiece while Burkia Faso who defeated Zimbabwe 3-1 come third.
Back to the Cameroon, Mali game, Banga fired the Indomitable Lions into an early lead heading home in the fifth minute.
The forward was well positioned to head home from Anthony Kevin Mfede’s free-kick. This was his second goal at the tournament having scored in the opening game against Zimbabwe.
The lead was however short-lived with the Eagles of Mali levelling matters through Samake whose free kick at the edge of the box went past goalkeeper Haschou Kerrido.
In the other group A game, Burkina Faso dispatched Zimbabwe to all but end their journey at the Championship.
The Stallions secured a 3-1 win to brighten their chances of advancing to the knockout phase.
Left back Issouf Sosso gave Burkina Faso an early lead in the 14th minute before Zimbabwe levelled matter through Partson Jaure nine minutes later.
A spirited display in the second half saw Burkina Faso score twice through Claver Tiedrebeogo and substitute Issiaka Ouedraogo.
Action continues on Thursday with two games in group B. Two former Champions Libya and DR Congo face off while Niger take on Congo Brazzaville
RUTEMBESA Anicet [ Chief Editor]
