Mostafa Mohamed scored the only goal of the contest just before the half hour mark to give Egypt a 1-0 win in the tournament opener at Cairo International Stadium.

Mohamed rose highest to head home a pinpoint Ahmed Fatouh cross to give his side the lead.

Mali made a lively start to the second half Ibrahima Kone struck the crossbar before Mohamed Sobhi made a superb save shortly after.

Mali kept pressing in search of an equaliser but it proved elusive as the home side held on for victory in the Group A contest.

Cameroon and Ghana drew 1-1 in the other match played today.

Three spots in the men's event at next year's Olympic Games in Tokyo are up for grabs at the tournament.

The finalists and the winner of the third-place play-off will qualify for Tokyo 2020.