2024 WAFCON: Ghana’s Black Queens Draw 1-1 with Mali, Fight for Survival in Group C
Ghana’s Black Queens are still searching for their first victory at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Mali in their second Group C match on July 11, 2025, at Berkane Stadium in Morocco.
Coming off a 2-0 defeat to defending champions South Africa, the Black Queens desperately needed a win to keep their knockout hopes alive. They started strongly, with Doris Boaduwaa scoring a powerful header in the sixth minute after a deflected cross caught Mali’s defense off guard. Despite controlling 58% of possession and creating 17 shots, Ghana failed to capitalize on key chances, with Boaduwaa and Evelyn Badu unable to convert under pressure.
Mali, buoyed by their 1-0 win over Tanzania, fought back in the second half. Aissata Traoré exploited a defensive error in the 52nd minute, latching onto a precise through-ball from Saratou Traoré to beat goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan and level the score. Despite late substitutions, including Princella Adubea and Princess Marfo, Ghana couldn’t restore their lead, while Mali threatened from set pieces.
The draw leaves Ghana with one point from two matches, sitting at the bottom of Group C. To advance to the quarter-finals, the Black Queens must secure a convincing victory against Tanzania on July 14 and rely on South Africa defeating Mali in the simultaneous Group C fixture.
Coach Kim Lars Björkegren expressed frustration over missed opportunities, noting Ghana’s 2.66 expected goals compared to Mali’s 0.62, but remains optimistic about his team’s chances. Midfielder Jennifer Cudjoe, named Woman of the Match, emphasized the need to deliver for fans in the crucial upcoming game.
