2026 Women Afcon Qualifiers: Cape Verde chase historic first as Mali look to extend dominance

Cape Verde welcome Mali to the Estadio Nacional in Praia on Friday afternoon with a place at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations hanging in the balance, as one side seeks a maiden qualification while the other continue a longstanding presence at the tournament.

For the hosts, this fixture represents a significant opportunity to make history.

Cape Verde have never before reached the final stage of the competition, falling at earlier hurdles in previous campaigns. Yet optimism has grown around a squad showing clear signs of progress.

Their first-round triumph over Guinea, secured through a 2-2 draw away and a convincing 4-1 win at home, fuelled belief that this could be the year they finally break through.

The challenge facing them, however, is formidable.

Mali bring experience, continuity and a well-established presence at Africa’s biggest women’s tournament.

They have qualified eight times, most recently reaching the quarter-finals where they were knocked out by Morocco.

Their best achievement came in 2018, finishing fourth after advancing to the last four.

That pedigree has made them strong favourites heading into this decisive tie.

With talents such as Agueicha Diarra and Aïssata Traoré leading their attack, Mali possess the firepower and structure to unsettle Cape Verde’s defensive organisation.

Their style has typically relied on pace and physicality, coupled with a resilience forged through regular competition against the continent’s elite.

Cape Verde, despite the contrast in experience, have characteristics that could trouble the Malian side.

A growing core of players featuring in overseas leagues has strengthened both quality and mentality within the squad.

The team’s improving cohesion and confidence were on display during their dominant home victory against Guinea, suggesting they are prepared to rise to the occasion in front of a home crowd that will expect energy and ambition.

This match therefore becomes a compelling contest of contrasting profiles: a Mali team accustomed to the spotlight and advancement versus a Cape Verde side motivated by the possibility of a historic landmark. The Falcões are aiming to “fly higher” than ever before, while the Eagles will look to rely on proven strength and composure in crucial moments.

With the return fixture still to follow, the opening leg in Praia promises to set the tone in a duel between a rising hopeful and a seasoned competitor.

For Cape Verde, it is a chance to rewrite their footballing narrative.

For Mali, it is about maintaining their rightful place at the heart of the women’s game in Africa.