Mali made history by advancing to the semi-finals of the 2018 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations – a first-time feat – thanks to a 3-2 win over Algeria at the Cape Coast Stadium Friday.
The result saw the Les Aiglonnes go through alongside Cameroon who held hosts Ghana 1-1 in the other Group A fixture in Accra, effectively ending the campaign of the Black Queens.
Mali needed two goals from substitute Fatoumata Diarra to achieve the great feat, their best ever outing in the history of the biennial championship since making their debut in 2002.
The Malians made early incursions in the game as they were seeking for a win at all cost to cement their place in the last four.
Winger Salimata Diarra was brought down inside box following an excellent display to win a penalty for the ‘Les Aigles’. Bassira Toure’s kick was too weak as goalkeeper Kahina Takenint parried it away in the 19th minute.
Despite the Malians’ dominance, Algeria broke the deadlock in the 38th minute when Lydia Belkacemi headed home an excellent free-kick by Myriam Benlazar.
Thirteen minutes after recess, Fatoumata Diarra’s low drive shot beat goalkeeper Takenint to draw level.
Imene Merrouche converted a penalty to restore Algeria’s lead in the 63rd following a handball incident inside the box.
With seven minutes away from the final whistle, Aissatou Diadhiou’s long drive effort from the centre beat goalie Takenint to pull parity for the second time.
Mali sealed their win with the last kick of the game through a spot kick by Fatoumata Diarra.
Cameroon topped Group A with seven points, Mali on six points, Ghana with four points and Algeria in that order pointless.
The semi-finals fixtures are scheduled for November 27 and 28.
