It was a disciplined and determined performance by Mali, as they claimed a narrow 1–0 victory over Tanzania at the 2025 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Berkane on Monday.
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Decisive moment: Just before the break, Saratou Traoré converted with a composed strike into the bottom-right corner during first-half stoppage time (45+1′), following a well-delivered set-piece. That goal proved to be the match-winner.
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Tanzania’s fightback: The Twiga Stars pushed hard in the second half. Elizabeth Chenge and Stumai Athumani threatened on multiple occasions, with one header forcing a sharp save, but the Tanzanian attack couldn't find the breakthrough.
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Defensive resilience: Mali’s goalkeeper Fatoumata Karentao stood firm, delivering key saves and organizing her defence under sustained pressure.
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Control of possession: Tanzania had a slight edge in possession (~55%), but Mali were more clinical, taking their single chance to win the match.
What This Means
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Mali tops Group C alongside South Africa, who secured a 2‑0 win over Ghana.
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Tanzania is left in need of a bounce-back in their next group match against the South African champions .
Mali’s tight victory highlights their tactical maturity and ability to seize key moments. Meanwhile, Tanzania’s spirited performance promises more competitive battles ahead in Group C.