Mali kicked off their 2024 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Tanzania in Group C on Monday, July 7.
The match, held at the Stade Municipal de Berkane, saw both teams battling fiercely throughout. However, it was Mali who found the breakthrough just before halftime when Saratou Traore found the back of the net with a fine strike that proved to be the match-winner.
Despite efforts from Tanzania to respond in the second half, Mali’s defense stood firm, ensuring the East African side had no clear way back into the game.
The victory gives Mali an early advantage in the group standings. They now sit second behind South Africa, who also secured a win in their opening match, with both sides level on three points.
Mali will face Ghana’s Black Queens in their second group game on Friday, July 11, in what promises to be a tight contest.
Their final Group C match will be against defending champions South Africa, a clash that could decide who advances to the knockout stages.
Watch the highlights below:
