2024 WAFCON: Ghana winless in two after 1-1 draw with Mali

Ghana’s Black Queens are on the brink of an early exit from the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) following a 1-1 draw against Mali in their second Group C game on Friday in Berkane.

The result leaves Ghana winless after two matches, having earlier lost 2-0 to defending champions South Africa. The Black Queens now face a must-win clash against Tanzania on Monday to stand any chance of reaching the knockout stage.

Ghana made a bright start at the Stade Municipal de Berkane, taking the lead in the sixth minute through Alice Kusi, whose effort beat the Malian goalkeeper. Despite creating further chances, both sides failed to convert, and the first half ended with Ghana narrowly ahead.

Mali responded strongly after the break and were rewarded in the 52nd minute when Aissat Traore capitalised on a lapse in Ghana’s defence to slot home the equaliser past goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan Findiib.

The draw puts Mali in a strong position to qualify for the quarter-finals with four points from two matches, while Ghana, with just one point, will require a decisive performance in their final group game.