Cameroon Advances in 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations
In a thrilling encounter on Sunday night, Cameroon managed to secure a narrow 1-0 victory against Ghana, propelling them into the quarter-finals of the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) held in Casablanca. The match marked a significant milestone for the Cameroonian side, as striker Marie Gisele Ngah Manga scored the decisive goal from the penalty spot during the first half at the Stade Moulay Rachid. This goal was Ngah Manga's third of the tournament, contributing to Cameroon's total of six points from two matches in Group D, thus solidifying their place in the next stage of the competition.
With their qualification assured, Cameroon is set to face Cape Verde, who have unfortunately lost both of their matches so far in the tournament. Meanwhile, Ghana will be looking to secure their own quarter-final berth against Mali in a crucial match that could determine their fate in the competition.
Mali Resurrects Their Campaign
On the same day, Mali revitalized their tournament hopes with a thrilling 3-2 victory over the debutants Cape Verde at the Stade Larbi Zaouli. Mali took the lead with a goal from Oumou Koné in the 29th minute, only for Cape Verde to equalize just before halftime through Eveline Nadine Pereira Varela. However, Mali regained the advantage shortly after the break with a goal from Fatoumata Niakaté, followed by another from Fatoumata Diarra in the 79th minute, putting them ahead 3-1. Cape Verde managed to pull one back in the 88th minute with a goal from Alivia Kelly, setting the stage for a dramatic finish, but Mali held on to secure the win.
As the tournament progresses, the top two teams from each of the four groups will advance to the knockout stages. Notably, the four teams that reach the semi-finals will earn a coveted spot at the 2027 Women's World Cup in Brazil, while the four teams that do not advance will compete for two playoff spots in an inter-continental qualifier. The WAFCON final is scheduled for August 16, and the excitement is building as teams vie for glory in this prestigious tournament.
As reported by rfi.fr.
