WAFCON: Mali hold on for narrow win over tireless Tanzania

Mali managed the game with discipline, soaking up pressure and making key defensive interventions when needed. In addition, goalkeeper Fatoumata Karentao played a crucial role in preserving the lead, making multiple saves and commanding her area well.

The game's only goal came in first-half stoppage time when Saratou Traore found the bottom right corner with a composed finish from the centre of the box following a set-piece situation in the closing minutes of the first half. It proved to be the decisive moment in a match where both sides created chances but struggled to convert.

Tanzania had several opportunities to equalise in the second stanza. Stumai Athumani forced a sharp save from Karentao with a header in the 56th minute and then Elizabeth Chenge was also denied later in the half. Despite their pressure, the Tanzanian attack was repeatedly caught offside, limiting their momentum in the final third.

Tanzania pushed hard in stoppage time, winning late free kicks and pressing forward to break the goal drought. Their final chance came in the 95th minute when Donisia Minja's left-footed strike from outside the box flew over the bar.