2024 Women's AFCON: Ghana and Mali share the spoils | OneFootball

The Black Queens miss out on victory and must now rely on their Matchday 3 result to determine their fate

2024 women's AFCON: Ghana and Mali share the spoils

Ghana and Mali played out a 1-1 draw on July 11, 2025, in the second round of the group stage at the 2024 Women's Africa Cup of Nations. The Ghanaians struck first early in the match, but Mali quickly hit back to level the score.

Group C's second matchday saw Ghana face off against Mali this afternoon at the Municipal Stadium in Berkane. The Black Queens were hunting for their first points in the tournament after a tough opening defeat to South Africa (2-0). Meanwhile, the Mali Eagles were aiming to strengthen their position following a narrow 1-0 win over Tanzania on Matchday 1.

Ghana strikes early in style

Ghana took the lead as early as the 6th minute. Alice Kusi finished off a sweeping team move with a close-range strike. Dominant in the opening exchanges, the Black Queens piled on the pressure in the opposition box, with Doris Boaduwaa and Evelyn Badu orchestrating several dangerous moments, but they couldn't extend their lead.

Mali's defense was under siege from Ghana's relentless attack, but Malian goalkeeper Fatoumata Karentao stood tall with crucial saves to keep her side in the contest.

Mali equalizes and stands firm

After the break, Mali came out with more attacking intent. In the 52nd minute, Saratou Traoré found Aïssata Traoré with a perfect through ball. The Malian forward shrugged off a Ghanaian defender and fired a clinical shot across goal to restore parity (1-1). The Black Queens tried to reclaim the lead with the introductions of Princella Adubea and Princess Marfo, but to no avail. Mali also threatened, especially from set pieces.

With this draw, Ghana has earned their first point, while Mali moves to four points after two matches. The final group game will be decisive in the race for a quarter-final spot.