In a crucial Group C match held at Stade Municipal de Berkane, Ghana and Mali drew 1-1 in a thrilling game that keeps both teams’ hopes of advancing to the quarter-finals of the TotalEnergies 2024 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations hanging in the balance. The West African rivals showed great determination, with goals from Alice Kusi for Ghana and Aïssata Traoré for Mali, ensuring neither side left empty-handed.

Ghana’s strong start and Mali’s comeback

After a tough 2-0 defeat against South Africa in their opening game, the Black Queens arrived under pressure but quickly took control of the match. Their efforts were rewarded early when Kusi scored from close range after a near-miss header by Doris Boaduwaa in the sixth minute. This early goal energized Ghana, who dominated the first half but failed to extend their lead despite several chances from Boaduwaa, Kusi, and Evelyn Badu. The excellent goalkeeping of Fatoumata Karentao was key to Mali keeping the score close.

Mali, having defeated Tanzania in their opener, seemed rattled initially but soon found their rhythm. In the second half, the Malian team came out with renewed determination and their persistence paid off in the 52nd minute when a through ball from Saratou Traoré broke the Ghana defense and was calmly finished by Aïssata Traoré to level the match.

Ghana pushes for the win but Mali stands firm

After conceding the equalizer, Ghana launched wave after wave of attacks. Princella Adubea, Grace Asantewaa, and Jennifer Cudjoe all came close to scoring, but Mali’s defense and Karentao’s goalkeeping stood firm. Despite dominating possession, especially in the final 20 minutes, the Black Queens could not find the winning goal. Coach Kim Björkegren’s team now faces a must-win final group game with just one point.

Meanwhile, the draw brought Mali to four points, putting them in a strong position to qualify for the next round, with their destiny in their own hands. For Ghana, the path forward requires a victory over Tanzania and favorable results elsewhere to advance.

This tense and exciting match reflected the competitive spirit of the so-called “Group of Death” in this edition of WAFCON. Both teams showed resilience, skill, and hunger for victory, but with their hopes still uncertain, the pressure is at its highest heading into the final group stage.