The Indomitable Lionesses edged Mali in a thrilling contest, while the Black Queens comfortably defeated tournament debutants Cape Verde to move level on three points.
Manga's Brace Earns Cameroon Victory Over Mali
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.
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.
Ghana Too Strong for WAFCON Debutants Cape Verde
Ghana also began their Group D campaign with a convincing 2-0 victory over Cape Verde, making the most of their experience against the tournament newcomers.
The Black Queens wasted little time taking control of the match. Doris Boaduwaa opened the scoring after just six minutes, finishing well after being picked out by experienced defender Portia Boakye.
Cape Verde, making their first appearance at the Women's Africa Cup of Nations, battled hard but found it difficult to break down Ghana's organised defence.
Ghana doubled their advantage nine minutes into the second half when Cape Verde defender Eleia Vieira accidentally turned the ball into her own net while trying to deal with a dangerous attack.
With a comfortable lead, Ghana controlled possession and managed the game well, with head coach Kim Lars Bjorkegren introducing fresh legs from the bench to see out the victory.
Cape Verde's difficult evening ended on a disappointing note when Klaydiana Borges was sent off in stoppage time, forcing the debutants to finish the match with 10 players.
The result gives Ghana an ideal start as they continue their pursuit of another strong run in the competition after securing bronze at the previous tournament. Cape Verde, despite the defeat, will take pride in reaching the continental finals for the first time and will now look to respond when they face Mali in their second group match.
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