Cameroon Women vs Mali Women WAFCON Preview
Cameroon begin their quest to get their hands on the Women's Africa Cup of Nations title when they face Mali in a Group D clash.
The Indomitable Lionesses are regulars at the tournament, and their experience should give them the edge over the Malians.
Key Stats
- Cameroon have won two of their last three matches in all competitions.
- Cameroon are unbeaten in the last eight matches in all competitions.
- Mali have failed to win eight of their last nine matches in all competitions.
Cameroon Often Dominant
Cameroon have a dominant record in this fixture and are unbeaten in eight previous matches against Mali. The most recent meeting was a third-place match at the 2018 WAFCON, with the Indomitable Lionesses claiming a 4-2 victory.
Cameroon’s Solid WAFCON Record
Cameroon have been regulars at the WAFCON over the years but are yet to win the trophy. They have finished second on four occasions but failed to qualify for the 2024 edition.
The failure to qualify for the 2024 competition marked a dark period for Cameroon, who struggled to find their best form. However, they appear to be getting back on track and will be keen to make an impact in Morocco.
Cameroon claimed a 3-1 victory over Benin Republic in their final warm-up fixture. Also among their recent results is a 1-0 victory over 10-time WAFCON winners Nigeria.
Mali Desperate for WAFCON Legacy
Mali are also considered regulars at the WAFCON but have not established any reputation in the competition. Their best showing was a fourth-place finish in 2018, while they could only manage a quarter-final berth in 2024.
The Malians have been well below their best heading into the opening fixture. They have failed to win eight of their last nine matches in all competitions, with four wins and as many draws in that run.
Mali wrapped up their preparations for the WAFCON with a 1-0 defeat to Ivory Coast.
Team News and Predicted Line-ups
Cameroon (4-3-3): Cathy Biya; Berthe Abega, Lewijo Mogai, Colette Ndzana, Mayi Kith; Toko Njoya, Fatima Kome, Ngo Mbeleck; Naomie Eto, Ngah Manga, Aboudi Onguene.
Mogai and Ndzana should form a partnership in central defence while Fatima Njoya is expected to feature in midfield. Onguene is set to feature in attack, with Ngah Manga providing support.
Mali (4-4-2): Fatoumata Karentao; Kani Konte, Fatouh Dembele, Teninsoun Sissoko, Mariam Marega; Coumba Dembele, Fatoumata Diarra, Yakare Niakate, Saratou Traore; Oumou Kone, Angueissa Kome.
Kone and Kome should partner in attack while Traore is expected to start in midfield. Konte should hold the fort at the heart of the defence alongside Dembele.