2024 Women's AFCON: Mali kicks off campaign with victory over Tanzania | OneFootball

Mali's women claim opening win against Tanzania and seize second place in Group C.

Mali 1-0 Tanzanie / Credit photo : TFF Tanzania

Mali opened their 2024 Women's Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Tanzania on Monday, July 7, after an intense match. Thanks to Saratou Traoré, the Eagle Ladies managed to secure the win despite strong Tanzanian resistance in Berkane.

The final fixture of the opening round in the 2024 Women's AFCON was played this evening at the Municipal Stadium in Berkane, pitting Mali's Eagle Ladies against Tanzania's Twiga Stars.

A balanced first half

Both teams started the game at full throttle, driven by a determination to gain the upper hand. Tanzania threatened early on, especially through Jamila Mnunduka, Enekia Lunyamila, and Anastazia Katunzi, but Malian goalkeeper Fatoumata Karentao stood firm, denying several dangerous attempts. Mali responded with long-range efforts from Saratou Traoré and Agueissa Diarra, but initially failed to break the deadlock.

Saratou Traoré breaks the deadlock

In a tense, fiercely contested match, Mali took the lead just before halftime. Following a poorly cleared free kick, Saratou Traoré pounced on a loose ball in the box and coolly slotted it past the Tanzanian keeper with a precise right-footed strike (45+1’). In the second half, Tanzania ramped up their attacks.

Stumai Athumani and Jamila Mnunduka in particular forced Fatoumata Karentao into several crucial saves. The Malian goalkeeper produced a fine stop to deny Athumani’s header in the 56th minute, preserving her side’s slender lead. Substitutes Minja and Kabambo injected new life into Tanzania’s attack, but a lack of precision in the final third proved costly. Tanzania pushed hard in the closing stages but couldn't find an equalizer.