Mali overcome frustrated Tanzania to take three points from WAFCON opener

Tanzania looked more dangerous than opponents Mali on Monday at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) but it was the West Africans who came out on top with a 1-0 victory on the first day of play in Group C.

Saratou Traoré scored against the run of play just before halftime to deliver a gut punch to the Twiga Stars, who failed to break down the Malian defense in the second half. In first half stoppage time, Traoré was in the perfect place to fire in after a free kick service fell kindly for the China-based midfielder.

In an even first half, Mali failed to create too much danger Twiga Stars goalkeeper Najat Idrisa but a loss of focus before halftime cost the East Africans dearly.

Tanzania continued to be the more attacking team after the interval but the Malians successfully bunkered to maintain their advantage. In a group with defending champions South Africa and rising side Ghana, the result could be a crucial one for Mali’s ambitions while Tanzania now have difficult work ahead.

The Twiga Stars next face South Africa on Friday while Mali and Ghana in an all-West Africa clash that could have major implications for the group.

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