Africa Cup of Nations: Reports and fixtures

Yesterday

Mali 0 Algeria 1

A Rafik Halliche header just before half-time earned Algeria their first victory of the tournament in Luanda. The World Cup qualifiers went ahead when Halliche met a Karim Ziani free-kick two minutes before half time and, despite intense Mali pressure, Algeria held out for the victory. Mali striker Frédéric Kanouté was forced to start on the bench after suffering with a cold and only featured for the final half hour. The defeat leaves Mali on a single point from two games and on the brink of elimination.

Angola 2 Malawi 0

Tournament hosts Angola atoned for their opening day collapse as second-half strikes from Manucho and Flavio gave them the points in Luanda. After letting a 4-0 lead slip in the final 12 minutes against Mali on Sunday, the Black Antelopes dominated proceedings. The impressive Djalma's cross set up Flavio to head in the opener after 48 minutes before former Manchester United striker Manucho sealed matters with a sumptuous chip five minutes later.

Today

Ivory Coast v Ghana Group B, 6.30pm (Eurosport)

Faced with the possibility of an early exit from the tournament, the favourites Ivory Coast take on a Ghana side making their first appearance in this year's competition. The Elephants dominated Monday's goalless opener with Burkina Faso and defender Kolo Touré has faith the 1992 winners will reach the knockout stages. "I am confident. We are going to work hard to be ready against one of the best teams in Africa," Touré said. "We need to show character. We have the spirit, the team."

Ghana, who had been due to face Togo in their first game before last week's atrocities, were yesterday refused permission to switch the venue for their final game from Luanda to Cabinda. Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien belatedly joined up with the Ghanaian camp this week after recovering from a hamstring problem.