Group A pacesetters South Africa and Mali have played out a 1-1 draw in their second game of the African Nations Championship.

Lassana Diarra fired wide for Mali early on before South Africa went ahead midway through the first half from the penalty spot in Cape Town.

Bernard Parker put the spot kick away but Mali weren't happy as they felt that Adama Traore's challenge was outside the penalty area.

Lindokuhle Mbatha had a golden opportunity to double Bofana Bofana's lead but he was hesitant at the back post and didn't get his shot off in time.

Mali levelled the match in the 54th minute when Ibourahima Sidibe smashed the ball into the roof of the net.

Diarra and Parker both had further opportunities for either side but the match finished all square, meaning that South Africa remain on top of Group A thanks to their slightly better goal difference.

In their final group games on Sunday, South Africa next face Nigeria while Mali take on Mozambique.