WAFCON 2026: Mali midfielder Aïssata Traoré eyes title after Cape Verde win

Mali midfielder Aïssata Traoré has boldly declared that the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title is within reach for her team following their dramatic 3-2 victory over Cape Verde in Group D of the 2026 tournament.

The talented midfielder, who was named Woman of the Match after delivering an outstanding performance that included two crucial assists, believes Mali possess the quality, determination and unity required to compete with the continent’s strongest nations and mount a serious challenge for the coveted trophy.

Traoré played a decisive role in helping Les Aiglonnes secure an important three points in a thrilling encounter, providing the creativity and attacking spark that ultimately proved vital in overcoming a resilient Cape Verde side.

Her performance not only earned her individual recognition but also highlighted her growing influence within a Mali team that continues to show significant progress on the continental stage.

Speaking after the match, the midfielder expressed immense confidence in the team’s potential and emphasized the strong bond that exists within the squad.

According to Traoré, the unity among the players has become one of Mali’s greatest strengths and is helping the team improve with every match they play.

“We can do everything, and we are better now together. Just keep going, and let’s win this trophy,” she said following the final whistle.

The statement reflected the growing belief inside the Mali camp after a victory that has significantly boosted the team’s hopes of progressing to the knockout stages of the competition.

Mali’s success against Cape Verde was hard-fought, with both teams producing an entertaining contest filled with attacking football and moments of high drama. In the end, Les Aiglonnes showed composure and determination to emerge with a 3-2 victory, keeping their ambitions firmly alive.

For Traoré, the result was further evidence that Mali are developing into a team capable of competing with Africa’s elite. The midfielder believes the squad is continuing to evolve and gain confidence as the tournament progresses.

The victory also underlined the character of the Malian side, which demonstrated resilience under pressure and the ability to respond in crucial moments.

With momentum building, attention now turns to what promises to be one of the most important matches of Mali’s campaign.

Les Aiglonnes will face the Ghana women’s national football team in their final Group D fixture, a match that could have major implications for qualification to the quarter-finals.

The encounter is expected to be fiercely contested, with both teams eager to secure a positive result and strengthen their chances of advancing to the knockout rounds.

For Mali, confidence will be high following their impressive display against Cape Verde, while Traoré’s inspirational performance and optimistic outlook have further reinforced belief within the squad.

The midfielder’s ambition to win the tournament may appear bold, but it reflects the growing confidence of a team determined to make its mark on the continental stage.

As the group phase enters its decisive stage, Mali will be hoping to carry their momentum into the clash against Ghana and continue their quest for a historic WAFCON triumph.

With players such as Aïssata Traoré leading by example and the squad displaying increasing cohesion, Les Aiglonnes are emerging as one of the tournament’s most determined and ambitious teams. Their next challenge now awaits against the Black Queens, with a place in the knockout rounds potentially hanging in the balance.