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CAF
6 days ago
- Sport
- CAF
The Remarkable Journey of Aïssata Traore
She entered the press conference room at the Rabat Olympic Stadium with a beaming smile ahead of the CAF TotalEnergies Women's Africa Cup of Nations quarterfinal clash between Morocco and Mali. Radiant and glowing, she exuded a calm yet resolute energy. Aïssata Traoré, the forward for Mali's women's national team, carries the aura of someone who knows exactly where she's headed—fully aware of the path she has taken and eager to embrace the present. The 2024 edition of the CAF TotalEnergies Women's Africa Cup of Nations holds special significance for her. Her equalizing goal against Ghana (1–1)—a pivotal moment that reignited Malian hopes—remains fresh in everyone's memory. 'That goal was for an entire nation, for my family, and for everyone who believes in us,' she shared with heartfelt sincerity. At just 27 years old, the Fleury 91 striker already boasts a wealth of international experience. Her first WAFCON appearance dates back to 2018, when Mali came close to finishing on the podium—a bittersweet memory that still fuels her ambition. Since then, she has grown immensely, both personally and professionally. Her recent transfer to Boston in the United States marks a major turning point in her career. Transitioning from the African scene to the North American league—renowned for its intensity and professionalism—is more than just a club move; it's a new chapter in a different culture, pace, and environment. 'It's not just a change of club—it's a change of continent, culture, and rhythm. But I'm ready. After this tournament, I'll take the time to fully process everything,' she says with admirable maturity. For now, however, Aïssata remains fully focused on her mission with the Malian Eagles. She embodies the competitive spirit fused with national pride. 'This quarterfinal against Morocco is more than just a match. It's a battle—an opportunity to showcase a different image of women's football in Mali.' She emphasizes the importance of commitment and desire. 'On the field, it's not just about tactics or fitness. It's about hunger and determination. If we want it more than the opponent, we have every chance to win.' Despite the mounting pressure and fatigue at this stage of the tournament, Aïssata and her teammates display unshakeable mental strength. The weight of the nation rests on their shoulders, but it only pushes them to go beyond their limits. 'We must give it our all. If it means leaving our bodies—or even our souls—on the pitch, we'll do it. To make our families and our people proud.' This message of sacrifice and passion resonates deeply, as Aïssata is playing not just for herself, but for the future of women's football in Mali. 'I don't know if I'll have the chance to play another WAFCON, so I'm determined to be as impactful as possible. This tournament is a unique opportunity for all of us.' She also draws strength from the support of Malian fans in Morocco, hoping to see them turn out in numbers on matchday their voices a powerful force that could propel the team to victory. In essence, Aïssata Traoré is far more than a talented footballer. She is living proof that with hard work, determination, and a genuine smile, one can transform not only their own destiny, but that of a nation. Her journey from her first WAFCON appearance in 2018 to her new challenge in Boston, is a source of inspiration for every young girl who dreams of playing football.
CAF
07-07-2025
- Sport
- CAF
Mali, Tanzania face off in battle for redemption
As the sun prepares to set in Berkane on Monday, July 7, the second Group C fixture will get underway with 2018 semifinalists Mali taking on East African side Tanzania at 8:00pm (local time) at the ongoing TotalEnergies Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). The two teams faced off in 2010 when Tanzania played at their first ever WAFCON with the West Africans emerging as victors following a 3-2 win in a closely-contested second Group A tie. Back then, four goals were scored between the 25th and 32nd minutes with each of the two teams scoring a brace. A lot has changed since then. Mali missed the next two editions before returning for the WAFCON 2016 where they did not make it past the group stages. Les Aigles then went on to reach the semifinals two years later in Ghana where they eventually finished fourth – their highest finish in the history of the continental competition. For Tanzania, this is their first return to the continent's biggest showpiece since 2010. Opportunities anew When they walk out of the tunnel, it will be for the eighth time in 13 editions. Only once have they made it past the group stages. Mali want to put this lacklustre record behind them and at this year's edition, they have a brand new chance to remind everyone that they belong here. They want to return to the podium. But first, they must take on a stubborn Tanzania side that is desperate to make a mark on the continent. With 20 goals under their belt in two rounds of qualifying, Mali are a team that like to express themselves in front of goal. Conceding only thrice, their discipline at the back is also a standout virtue that sets them apart from the pretenders. 'It is always an honour to represent our nation. We are ready to start on a high note in our opening game against Tanzania. This is a big stage but we are here to mean business,' says Aïssata Traoré, the Fleury 91 midfielder who brings the French first division experience to the WAFCON. Her coach Mohamed Saloum adds with confidence, 'The mission is one. We want to go far in this competition. Our plan is to take it one day at a time. We are prepared mentally, physically and ready to get started. Tanzania is an organized team but we also have talented players and our goal is to play as a team. We are in the right mind space and know what we need to do to excel.' Saloum will be relying on PSG's Agueicha Diarra, who netted an impressive eight goals in qualification leading all scorers on the continent, to bring her experience into the team fold against Tanzania in pursuit of an early three points in Group C. East Africa's flagbearers Being the only team from the East African region means that Tanzania are not representing just themselves but the entire CECAFA bloc. They are wearing a regional responsibility that means they must deliver in a tricky Group C that also has the reigning African champions South Africa and West African giants Ghana. 'We are back to the WAFCON. It has been a really long time since we were here. The morale is very high within the camp. We face Mali in our opening game and for us as a team, this will be our first appearance. The coach has done his job, we started our preparations a long time ago and now it is the perfect time to execute on everything that we have been told,' explained Anastazia Katunzi, the vice captain of the Twiga Stars. Tanzania, however, will be without star players Clement Opa who is suspended for this tie as well as Clara Luvanga who did not take part in Sunday's training at the Terrain Centre Federal in Saidia where the team has their base and is under review by the medical team. Opa netted three goals in qualification including one against Côte d'Ivoire and a brace past Togo in the final round of qualification. Head coach Bakari Shime will have to rely on the evergreen Stumai Abdallah, Aisha Mnuka, Jamila Rajab and Elizabeth Chenge to bring a spark to this encounter against Mali.
