AWCON 2018: Algeria 2-3 Mali- Eagles rally to edge Les Fennecs to book historic semi-final ticket

Published on: 23 November 2018
AWCON 2018: Algeria 2-3 Mali- Eagles rally to edge Les Fennecs to book historic semi-final ticket
Fatoumata Diarra of Mali celebrates goal during the 2018 TOTAL African Womens Cup of Nations match between Algeria and Mali at the Cape Coast Sports Stadium, Cape Coast on 23 November 2018 ©Muzi Ntombela/BackpagePix

Mali made history by advancing to the semi-finals for the first time thanks to a 3-2 victory over Algeria on Friday at the Cape Coast Stadium. 

The Female Eagles 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.

The Eagles will finish Group A in second place with six points; one behind leaders Cameroon who drew 1-1 to eliminate hosts Ghana.

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