The Indomitable Lionesses edged Mali in a thrilling contest, with Ngah Manga’s brace proving the difference as Cameroon secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory in Casablanca.
Cameroon claimed a hard-fought 2-1 win over Mali in Casablanca thanks to a brilliant performance from Ngah Manga, who scored both goals to give her side a winning start.
The Indomitable Lionesses struck first in the 14th minute when Manga controlled a lofted pass superbly before calmly finishing past the goalkeeper from close range.
Mali responded well and were back on level terms after half an hour. Goalkeeper Michaely Bihina brought down Aissata Traore inside the penalty area, and Traore confidently converted the resulting spot-kick to make it 1-1.
Both teams created chances in an entertaining first half, but neither could find another breakthrough before the interval.
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The decisive moment arrived in the 72nd minute when a VAR review awarded Cameroon a second penalty. Manga stepped up and showed great composure to score her second goal of the evening and restore her side’s lead.
Mali pushed forward in search of another equaliser during the closing stages, with substitute Fatoumata Diarra coming closest in stoppage time. However, her effort lacked the power to beat Bihina, who gathered comfortably to secure all three points for Cameroon.
The victory continues Cameroon’s impressive record against Mali, with the Indomitable Lionesses now unbeaten in their last six meetings, winning five of those matches.
Cameroon will now prepare for a crucial clash against Ghana on Sunday, while Mali face Cape Verde as they look to keep their qualification hopes alive.