2024 Women's AFCON: South Africa make a good start, Mali edge Tanzania
The opening round of the Women's AFCON ended on Monday with wins for reigning African champions South Africa and for Mali
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South Africa begin defence of their title
Buoyed by their first continental title in 2022, South Africa have returned to Morocco intent on retaining their crown. Desiree Ellis and her players needed to send out a strong message in their first outing, and they did so with a 2-0 win over Ghana. The Black Queens, back in the competition after missing out in 2022, were no match for Banyana Banyana and their charismatic leader Jermaine Seoposenwe, who scored the second goal (34th minute) after Linda Motlhalo opened the scoring from the penalty spot (28th). On Friday, South Africa face Tanzania, while Ghana take on Mali.
Read also: 2024 Women's AFCON: fixtures and results
Winning return for Mali
Absent in 2022 after finishing fourth in 2018, Mali are back at this Women's AFCON with high ambitions. That was reflected in a successful start for Mouhamed 'Housseï' Saloum's side against Tanzania on Monday. A goal from Saratou Traoré in first-half stoppage time (45+1) was enough for the Malians, who take the three points and make a perfect start to their campaign. In the table, they sit top alongside South Africa.