By Agencies
Mali edged past Tanzania 1-0 in a tightly contested Group C match as both teams kicked off their campaigns at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.
A first-half stoppage-time goal from midfielder Saratou Traore proved decisive at the Berkane Stadium, where Mali’s physical edge and direct style eventually overcame Tanzania’s more intricate, possession-based approach.
The only goal of the match came moments before the half-time whistle. After a poorly cleared free-kick by the Tanzanian defence, the ball fell to Traore, who calmly drilled it low into the net from the edge of the penalty area.
Although the match was played in front of sparse crowds, the West Africans produced the clearer chances throughout. Aissata Traore, a constant threat on the left wing, was wasteful with several opportunities and finished the game with a bandaged head after a knock.
The win places Mali level on three points with defending champions South Africa, who beat Ghana 2-0 earlier in the day. Tanzania, meanwhile, are still searching for their first WAFCON finals point, having now lost all four matches they’ve played in the tournament’s history.
Tanzania weakened by yey absences
Returning to WAFCON for the first time since 2010, Tanzania came into the tournament with high hopes. However, those aspirations were dampened by the absence of three key overseas-based players.
Brighton forward Aisha Masaka was ruled out before the tournament due to a knee injury, while striker Clara Luvanga (Al-Nassr, Saudi Arabia) was listed as unavailable on the pre-match team sheet for unexplained reasons. Meanwhile, Mexican-based Opah Clement missed out due to suspension.
Coach Bakari Shime labelled the missing trio as “a major problem” in his post-match comments.
Despite the setbacks, Tanzania made a bright start, with midfielder Diana Msewa showing flashes of creativity and composure in the early stages. But Mali gradually seized control as the first half progressed.
Saratou Traore had an early sight of goal, misfiring after muscling into the box. Aissata Traore then produced a dazzling solo run that thrilled the few fans in attendance, though she failed to get a shot away.
Mali increased the pressure as the half wore on. Fatoumata Diarra tested goalkeeper Najiati Idrisa from distance, and Kadidiatou Diabate nearly converted the rebound. But it was Saratou Traore who made the breakthrough, guiding her shot smartly past the keeper after a set-piece scramble. Tanzania pushed for an equaliser in the second half, but Mali’s defence held firm. The Twiga Stars’ best chance came deep in injury time when substitute Elizabeth Chenge’s goal-bound effort was bravely blocked by Mali defender Aicha Samake.
