🇲🇱 Mali Begin WAFCON 2024 with Gritty Win Over Tanzania, Eyes Set on Knockout Stage

Mali Start Strong at WAFCON 2024 with 1–0 Victory Over Tanzania

Mali’s women’s national team kicked off their 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) campaign with an impressive 1–0 win against Tanzania on July 7 in Berkane, Morocco.

The match-winning goal came in first-half stoppage time as Saratou Traoré calmly finished from close range, giving the West African side all three points in their Group C opener.

Despite pressure from a determined Tanzanian side, Mali’s goalkeeper Fatoumata Karentao produced a brilliant performance, making several key saves to preserve the clean sheet.

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⚽ Match Summary:

Fixture: Mali 1–0 Tanzania

Date: July 7, 2025

Venue: Stade Municipal de Berkane

Goalscorer: Saratou Traoré (45+1’)

Player of the Match: Fatoumata Karentao (GK)

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🏆 WAFCON 2024 – Group C Standings (After Matchday 1)

Team Played Points GD

South Africa 1 3 +2
Mali 1 3 +1
Ghana 1 0 -2
Tanzania 1 0 -1

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🗣️ Coach’s Words

Head coach Mohamed Saloum, also known as “Housseï”, praised his team’s discipline and fighting spirit:

> “This is just the beginning. We know the group is tough, but we are here to compete, not just to participate.”

Saloum, who has been in charge since 2016, emphasized the importance of balancing youth and experience to push Mali beyond the group stage for the first time since their historic semifinal run in 2018.

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🌟 Players to Watch

Saratou Traoré – clinical finisher and midfield engine

Agueicha Diarra – talented forward with an eye for goal

Aïssata Traoré & Bintou Koité – bring strength and stability in midfield

Fatoumata Karentao – delivered a clean sheet masterclass vs Tanzania

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🔜 What’s Next?

Mali’s next challenge is a high-stakes showdown against defending champions South Africa on July 10 or 11, where another strong performance could secure a spot in the knockout stages.

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WAFCON 2024 is Mali’s opportunity to return to the African elite, and their opening win is a bold statement. With a united squad and clear ambition, Les Aigles Dames are ready to soar higher.

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