Cameroon march on as Mali keep WAFCON dream alive

The results leave Cameroon in control of the group, with Mali and Ghana still battling for the second qualification spot heading into the final round of matches.

Cameroon edge Ghana to stay perfect

Cameroon claimed a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Ghana to make it two wins from two and strengthen their grip on top spot in Group D.

The only goal of the match came in the 19th minute after the referee awarded Cameroon a penalty following a VAR review. Marie Ngah Manga calmly converted from the spot to score her third goal of the tournament, with all of Cameroon's goals so far coming from the in-form forward.

Cameroon defended with discipline for most of the match as Ghana enjoyed more possession in search of an equaliser.

The Black Queens believed they had levelled in the 80th minute when substitute Evelyn Badu finished from close range after a goalkeeping error. However, another VAR review ruled the goal out for offside, leaving Ghana frustrated.

Despite late pressure from the West Africans, Cameroon remained organised at the back and held on for another valuable three points.

The victory leaves the Indomitable Lionesses on six points and within touching distance of the quarter-finals. Ghana, meanwhile, will need a positive result against Mali in their final group match to keep their qualification hopes alive.

Mali survive Cape Verde fightback in five-goal thriller

Mali boosted their hopes of reaching the knockout stages with an exciting 3-2 win over Cape Verde in a match that produced plenty of attacking football.

Both sides went into the game needing a victory after losing their opening fixtures, and Mali made the brighter start.

Aissata Traore created the opening in the 29th minute, setting up Oumou Kone to give Mali the lead.

Cape Verde responded well and scored their first-ever Women's Africa Cup of Nations finals goal when Eve Pereira equalised in the 36th minute to send the teams into the break level.

Mali regained control shortly after half-time. Traore collected her second assist of the evening when she picked out Fatoumata Niakate, who restored Mali's advantage in the 50th minute.

The Lady Eagles extended their lead in the 79th minute when Orokia Sissoko provided the pass for Fatoumata Diarra to make it 3-1.

Cape Verde refused to give up and set up a tense finish when Natasha Whanon assisted Alivia Kelly, who reduced the deficit in the 88th minute.

Despite late pressure from the tournament debutants, Mali defended well in the closing minutes to secure a crucial victory.

The result leaves Mali level with Ghana on three points, while Cape Verde remain without a point after two matches. Although the defeat leaves them bottom of the group, Cape Verde showed determination by scoring twice and pushing Mali all the way to the final whistle.

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