Mali secured a thrilling 3–2 victory over Cape Verde in an entertaining 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) Group D encounter, earning a crucial three points after an end-to-end contest.
The Eagles displayed resilience and attacking quality to overcome the tournament debutants, who twice battled back but ultimately fell just short in a match filled with exciting football.
Koné Gives Mali the Lead
Mali started brightly and were rewarded in the 29th minute when Oumou Koné finished a well-worked move after being set up by Aïssata Traoré, giving her side a deserved 1–0 advantage.
Cape Verde Respond
Cape Verde refused to be intimidated and equalised just seven minutes later.
Evy Pereira found the back of the net in the 36th minute, bringing the debutants level at 1–1 and ensuring the teams went into halftime with everything to play for.
Mali Regain Control
The second half began with Mali once again taking the initiative.
In the 50th minute, Fatoumata Niakaté restored Mali’s lead with a composed finish after another assist from Aïssata Traoré, putting the Eagles back in front.
Mali continued to press and were rewarded again in the 79th minute when Fatoumata Diarra scored to extend the lead to 3–1, seemingly putting the match beyond Cape Verde’s reach.
Cape Verde Fight Until the End
Cape Verde showed remarkable determination and reduced the deficit in the 88th minute through Alivia Kelly, setting up a tense finish.
Despite late pressure from the tournament newcomers, Mali defended resolutely to hold on for an important victory.
Goalscorers
- 29′ – Oumou Koné (Mali)
- 36′ – Evy Pereira (Cape Verde)
- 50′ – Fatoumata Niakaté (Mali)
- 79′ – Fatoumata Diarra (Mali)
- 88′ – Alivia Kelly (Cape Verde)
What the Result Means
The victory gives Mali a valuable three points in Group D and strengthens their hopes of reaching the WAFCON quarter-finals. Their attacking display, coupled with solid defending during the closing stages, will give them confidence heading into their next fixture.
For Cape Verde, the defeat is disappointing, but the debutants once again demonstrated courage and attacking intent. Scoring twice against a strong Malian side is another positive sign as they continue to gain experience on the continental stage.
Final Thoughts
Mali’s 3–2 victory over Cape Verde was one of the most entertaining matches of the group stage so far. Goals from Oumou Koné, Fatoumata Niakaté, and Fatoumata Diarra proved decisive, while Cape Verde’s Evy Pereira and Alivia Kelly ensured there was late drama.
The result keeps Mali firmly in contention for a place in the knockout rounds, while Cape Verde continue to show that they are capable of competing with more established teams despite this narrow defeat.
