Paynesville City — Malian powerhouse AS Mande exhibited their dominance as they defeated Liberian Women's League Champions, Determine Girls, with a commanding 3-0 scoreline during the preliminary qualifiers of the 2023 WAFU Zone 'A' Women Champions League.
In a showdown marked by a second-half burst, Oumou Kone's brace and a well-placed strike by Maimouna Traore secured the victory for the visiting team in a round-robin tournament. The match, held at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Sports Complex, witnessed a limited number of enthusiastic supporters despite being poorly attended.
Frustration Mounts over Scoreboard Malfunction
The enthusiasm of witnessing the revival of football was dampened by a vexing technical glitch. The scoreboard, which adhered to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) License requirements at the SKD Sports Complex, failed to function, leaving both foreign teams and local fans in disbelief.
A Promising Start for Determine Girls
The match kicked off with an engaging display, as Determine Girls, the reigning champions, showcased their ball-rotation prowess under the guidance of newly appointed Coach Tapha Manneh. The promising start, however, did not deter AS Mande.
Missed Opportunity for AS Mande and Debutant Heroics
Despite the early promise, AS Mande threatened first. Fatoumata Diarra squandered a clear-cut chance to put her side in the lead after 24 minutes. She found herself one-on-one with debutant goalkeeper Anita Davis but failed to beat her, preserving the goalless stalemate.
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Malian Dominance and the Breakthrough
From that juncture, AS Mande took control of the game, dictating the tempo and creating multiple opportunities. Despite their relentless efforts, the first half concluded without a breakthrough for either side.
However, the deadlock was shattered early in the second half. Oumou Kone capitalized on a splendid through ball, exploiting a momentary lapse in the hosts' defense. Kone, who would later be awarded the Woman of the Match title, expertly slotted home to give AS Mande the lead.
AS Mande Seals the Victory
AS Mande's persistence and tactical adaptation bore fruit as they extended their lead. Goalkeeper Fatoumata Karentao orchestrated a pinpoint long pass, setting up Diarra who skillfully fed Kone. Kone showcased her clinical finishing once again, netting her second goal of the match.
Determine Girls' Defensive Woes
The defensive struggles of Determine Girls persisted, and their disorganization at the back led to another concession. Maimouna Traore capitalized on the situation, sealing the game for AS Mande.
Late Hope and Missed Opportunity
A glimmer of hope emerged for the hosts as Elizabeth Tamba aimed for a consolation goal. Unfortunately, she failed to convert a simple tip-in opportunity from a mere six yards.
In the wake of this dominant performance by AS Mande, Determine Girls will need to regroup and re-strategize as they navigate through the remainder of the WAFU Zone 'A' Women Champions League qualifiers.
