2026 women's AFCON: Cameroon defeats Mali (2-1) thanks to Ngah Manga

29.07.26 FT Africa Women Cup of Nations

Cameroon W

2

:

Mali W

1

Level at halftime, Cameroon took control over Mali thanks to a brace from Marie Ngah Manga, including a decisive penalty.

Cameroon got off to a winning start in the 2026 Women's AFCON by overcoming Mali (2-1) on Wednesday at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca. Marie Ngah Manga opened the scoring in the 14th minute, finishing off a pass from Monique Ngock. However, the Malians responded on the half-hour mark through Aïssata Traoré, who slotted home a penalty to bring the sides level before the break.

Ngah Manga delivers for the Indomitable Lionesses

The Indomitable Lionesses resumed their dominance after the break, but struggled to immediately turn their superiority into goals. More enterprising, they finished with 67% possession and 17 shots, compared to Mali’s nine. The decisive moment came in the 73rd minute: Ngah converted a penalty, completed her brace, and secured all three points for Cameroon.

With this victory, Cameroon moves into second place in Group D behind Ghana, who beat Cape Verde (2-0). Both teams are on three points, but Ghana holds the top spot thanks to a superior goal difference. Mali and Cape Verde remain at the bottom with no points. Standings: 1. Ghana, 3 points (+2); 2. Cameroon, 3 points (+1); 3. Mali, 0 points (-1); 4. Cape Verde, 0 points (-2).

Mahdi Zakaria LAZRI |

Editor

Football web writer creating digital sports content with a focus on news, analysis and stories that reflect passion, accuracy and objectivity.

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Cameroon W

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Africa Women Cup of Nations