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.
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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.