As the sun sets over Berkane on Monday, July 7, the second Group C clash at the ongoing TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) will see 2018 semifinalists Mali face East African side Tanzania at 8:00 p.m. local time.
The two teams last met at WAFCON in 2010, during Tanzania’s debut appearance at the tournament. Mali edged a tightly contested Group A match with a 3-2 victory, in a game that saw four goals scored in a frenetic seven-minute spell between the 25th and 32nd minutes.
Since then, much has changed. Mali missed the next two editions but returned in 2016, though they failed to progress beyond the group stage. In 2018, however, they reached the semifinals in Ghana, securing their best-ever finish—fourth place. For Tanzania, this marks their first return to Africa’s premier women’s football tournament since that 2010 debut.
A New Opportunity
As they step out of the tunnel, Mali marks their eighth appearance in 13 editions of the tournament. Yet, they’ve only progressed beyond the group stage once. This year, they’re determined to rewrite that story.
With a renewed sense of purpose, Mali is eager to prove they belong on the continental stage—and aim to return to the podium. But first, they face a resilient Tanzania side hungry to make their presence felt.
Mali’s attacking flair is evident, having scored 20 goals in two qualifying rounds. Equally impressive is their defensive discipline, conceding just three times—a balance that separates contenders from the rest. The journey since 2010 has built them for this moment.
Mali Ready for WAFCON Opener Against Tanzania
Mali’s Aïssata Traoré says the team is ready to make a strong start at WAFCON: “It’s an honour to represent our nation. We’re here to compete and start strong against Tanzania.”
Coach Mohamed Saloum added, “We’re prepared mentally and physically. Our focus is on teamwork and progressing step by step.” He will rely on PSG’s Agueicha Diarra, the top scorer in qualifying, to lead the attack.
Tanzania Bears East Africa’s Hopes
As the only East African team at the tournament, Tanzania faces a tough Group C alongside South Africa and Ghana, carrying the hopes of the entire CECAFA region.
Twiga Stars Set for WAFCON Opener Against Mali
The Twiga Stars return to WAFCON with high morale as they prepare to face Mali in their opening match.
“This is our first appearance as a team, and we’re ready to execute everything we’ve trained for,” said vice captain Anastazia Katunzi.
Tanzania will be without Clement Opa (suspended) and Clara Luvanga, who is under medical review after missing Sunday’s training in Saidia.
Opa scored three goals during the qualifiers, including one against Côte d’Ivoire and a brace against Togo in the final round.
Head coach Bakari Shime will be counting on the experience and consistency of Stumai Abdallah, Aisha Mnuka, Jamila Rajab, and Elizabeth Chenge to ignite the team’s performance against Mali.
