The Liberian women’s national football team kicked off their 2025 West African Football Union (WAFU) Zone ‘A’ Women’s Cup campaign with a resounding 3-1 victory over Guinea Bissau on May 22nd at the Stade Ksar in Nouakchott, Mauritania. The match, part of Group A, saw Guinea Bissau take an early lead in the 10th minute, putting pressure on the Liberian side. However, Liberia responded resiliently, equalizing just before halftime in the 43rd minute courtesy of Jessica Quachie, who subsequently earned the “queen of the match” accolade for her impactful performance. The second half belonged to US-based forward Mimi Eiden, who netted a brace to secure a comfortable victory for Liberia. This win provided a strong start for the Liberian team, setting a positive tone for their tournament aspirations.
In the other Group A fixture on the same day, Mali showcased their dominance with a commanding 5-0 victory over the host nation, Mauritania, at the Cheikha Boidya stadium in Nouakchott. This result underscored Mali’s strength and established them as early contenders for the tournament title. The group stage action is set to continue on May 24th, with Liberia facing Mauritania and Mali taking on Guinea Bissau, both matches scheduled for 19:00 GMT. The contrasting results of the first round of matches set the stage for an intriguing second round of group stage clashes, with both Liberia and Mali aiming to maintain their winning momentum.
Group B of the tournament comprises Guinea, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and Gambia, adding further depth and excitement to the competition. The presence of these teams promises a diverse range of playing styles and competitive encounters as they battle for a spot in the knockout stages. The group stage format ensures each team will face every other team in their respective groups, maximizing the opportunities for thrilling matches and ensuring only the strongest teams advance. The diverse composition of both groups promises a dynamic and unpredictable tournament.
The 2025 WAFU Zone ‘A’ Women’s Cup encountered some initial logistical hurdles. Visa issues for the Liberian and Sierra Leonean teams, experienced in Abidjan, Ivory Coast and Conakry, Guinea respectively, forced a rescheduling of the tournament. Originally slated for May 19th to 31st, the competition was pushed back by three days and will now conclude on May 31st. These unforeseen delays highlight the complexities of international sporting events and the importance of efficient administrative processes. Despite the initial setbacks, the tournament commenced successfully, highlighting the resilience of the participating teams and organizers.
The Liberian government demonstrated its commitment to the women’s national team by providing substantial financial support. A sum of US$134,000 was allocated to cover the team’s expenses throughout the tournament, as announced by Liberia Football Association President Mustapha Raji in a press conference on May 21st. This funding underscores the government’s recognition of the importance of supporting women’s football and its development within the country. The financial backing enabled the team to focus on their preparations and compete without logistical or financial concerns, further emphasizing the government’s commitment to their success.
The opening matches of the 2025 WAFU Zone ‘A’ Women’s Cup have set the stage for a captivating tournament, showcasing the growing talent and competitiveness of women’s football in the West African region. Liberia’s victory, Mali’s dominant performance, and the diverse composition of both groups promise a thrilling competition, with each team vying for regional glory. The logistical challenges overcome before the start of the tournament and the financial support provided to the Liberian team serve as testaments to the dedication and commitment towards the development and growth of women’s football in the region. As the tournament progresses, the focus will remain on the on-field action, with each match offering an opportunity for the participating nations to showcase their skills and passion for the game.
