Cameroun opened their 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) campaign with a win, setting the stage for a highly anticipated Group D clash with Ghana on Sunday.
A brace from Ngah Manga and a goal by star player Aïssata Traore sealed a thrilling 3-2 victory for Cameroun over Mali in their Group D opener in Casablanca.
Goals
As early as the 14th minute, Cameroun took the lead when Manga scored with a beautiful effort.
It would take 15 minutes before Aïssata Traore responded for Mali, converting a penalty after goalkeeper Michaely Bihina brought her down in the box.
There was never a dull moment as the familiar rivals battled fiercely, producing a closely contested encounter and creating dangerous scoring opportunities at both ends.
It was, however, the Lionesses, who have won four of their previous meetings, that had the final say. Manga restored their lead in the 73rd minute, converting a penalty to score her second goal of the tournament.
Gingered up
With the victory and three points bagged, Cameroun are now second on the group table, a position they hope to maintain or improve upon when they play their second game.
That result no doubt serves as motivation for the Lionesses as they face yet another rival, the Black Queens on Sunday, in a game that could determine the outcome of the eventual standings in the group.
The Queens won 2-0 against Cabo Verde early last Wednesday and lead the standings on superior goals.
Mali and Cabo Verde will play the other group game as they both seek redemption for their campaign.
