By: Sylvester Tamba
NOUAKCHOTT, MAURITANIA – Liberia’s senior women’s national football team has advanced to the semifinals of the ongoing 2025 WAFU Zone A Women’s Tournament in Nouakchott, Mauritania, after finishing second in Group A with 5 points from three group stage matches. Group leaders Mali topped the group with 7 points.
Liberia secured their place in the knockout stage with a hard-fought 1–1 draw against Mali on Monday, May 26. Veteran forward Bendu Yantay was the standout performer, scoring Liberia’s equalizer and earning the Player of the Match award for her impact.
Up next, Liberia will face defending champions Senegal, who topped Group B with a flawless record—winning all three of their matches. The semifinal clash promises to be a thrilling encounter between two in-form teams, each eyeing a spot in the final.
In the other semifinal, Mali will take on Sierra Leone, who finished second in Group B.
Tournament Overview
The 2025 WAFU Zone A Women’s Tournament features eight teams split into two groups:
- Group A: Mauritania (hosts), Liberia, Guinea-Bissau, Mali
- Group B: Senegal, Guinea, Gambia, Sierra Leone
Liberia’s Journey to the Semifinals
Matchday 1 – May 22
Liberia 3–1 Guinea-Bissau
After conceding early, Liberia mounted an impressive comeback. Jessica Quachie scored the equalizer in the 43rd minute, and Mimi Eiden, a USA-based striker, added two goals. Quachie earned Player of the Match honors for her standout performance.
Matchday 2 – May 24
Liberia 1–1 Mauritania
Miatta Morris gave Liberia the lead in the 56th minute, but the hosts equalized with a late penalty. Liberia had earlier missed a penalty of their own. Louis Brown of Determine Girls was named Player of the Match for her strong all-around display.
Matchday 3 – May 26
Liberia 1–1 Mali
Needing just a draw to progress, Liberia withstood intense pressure from group leaders Mali. After conceding an early goal, Bendu Yantay equalized before halftime. In the second half, goalkeeper Abertha Prat of Shaita Angels made a series of crucial saves to preserve the result and secure Liberia’s place in the semis.
