Mali took a significant step toward securing a place in the quarterfinals of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations after battling to a 1–1 draw against Ghana in a lively Group C clash on Friday in Berkane.
Alice Kusi opened the scoring for the Black Queens in the sixth minute when she pounced on a loose ball near the goal line. Ghana had dominated the early proceedings and Kusi’s goal came after Doris Boaduwaa’s deflected header was drifting towards the net, only to be prodded in as Mali defender Coulouba Sogore struggled to clear.
Despite Ghana’s strong start, Mali held firm and gradually grew into the game. The Female Eagles found their equaliser in the 52nd minute as Aissata Traore showed strength and composure to outmuscle Ghana captain Portia Boakye and calmly slot the ball past goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan after receiving a clever through-ball from Saratou Traore.
The draw leaves Mali with four points after two matches, putting them in a strong position to qualify either directly or as one of the best third-placed teams. For Ghana, it was a frustrating night after failing to convert their dominance into a much-needed win. The Black Queens registered 58 percent possession and fired 17 shots but were undone by wasteful finishing and moments of poor decision-making in the final third.
Ghana must now beat Tanzania in their final group match on Monday to stand any chance of progressing to the knockout stage. This is their first appearance at the WAFCON finals since 2018 and they are yet to record a win at this year’s edition.
Meanwhile, Mali will look to seal qualification in their final group outing as they continue their quest for a maiden continental title. With South Africa set to face Tanzania later on Friday, the battle for qualification in Group C is poised for a dramatic finish.
