Mali opened the scoring seven minutes in with an excellent individual effort from Haidara beating three Honduran defenders before beating Michael Perello from 22 yards. Haidara danced through Honduras’ backline on a mazy run and kept his composure to fire past Perello at the near post.
Honduras came close to scoring in a frantic scramble to reach a rebound and although the ball crossed the line, the goal was ruled out for offside, leaving Los Catrachos much work to do in the second half. However, Honduras continued to struggle with Mali’s high-pressing, direct style of football and the Central Americans struggled to get the ball out of their half.
Mali made it 3-0 ten minutes after half-time through Malle’s finish as a result of their direct play, which Honduras had a hard time containing. The No9’s determination in front of goal wrapped up the game for Mali and Baye Ba’s side did well to see out the game.
As Honduras head home after without a win, Mali will prepare for their Round of 16 contest against a third-place finisher from Group B, E or F.