2024 WAFCON: Black Queens coach Kim Lars Bjorkegren saddened by draw against Mali

Black Queens head coach Kim Lars Bjorkegren has expressed disappointment after Ghana’s 1-1 draw with Mali in their second Group C match at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), a result that leaves the team’s qualification hopes hanging by a thread.

The outcome at the Stade Municipal de Berkane on Friday means Ghana have just one point from two matches, following their opening 2-0 defeat to South Africa.

They now face a must-win encounter against Tanzania on Monday to keep their hopes of reaching the knockout stage alive.

“We played a really good game [against Mali]. We had chances to win it. We are a bit sad, but we need to win the next game,” said Bjorkegren.

Ghana started strongly and went ahead in the sixth minute through Alice Kusi, who capitalised on a defensive lapse to slot home the opener.

The Black Queens created more chances in the first half but failed to extend their lead.

Mali came back more determined in the second period and found the equaliser in the 52nd minute through Aissat Traore, who took advantage of poor defending to beat goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan Findiib.

Mali now sit on four points and are well placed to progress, while Ghana face a critical final group match.