Oghara, Nigeria, Oct 29, GNA - Substitute Romanatu Tahiru's lone goal on Sunday sent Ghana's Black Queens cruising when they beat Mali in a Group B opener in the ongoing African Women Championship (AWC) played at the Oghara Stadium.

The Ghanaians had a difficult game and the player who came on for Florence Adutwuemwaa made the difference when the Malian goalkeeper Bamba Djenneba made a mess of a cross in the 48th minute to gift the Ghana the points.

Tahiru picked a pass from the left flank, raced deep into the Malians' goal area and released the cross that slipped through Djannba's fingers.

The Ghanaians, touted alongside host Nigeria to win the competition, met a strong opposition in the Malians whose heights and fitness proved effective.

The Queens midfielders, often their biggest strength, lacked cohesion and with the attack lacking composure it was obvious the day would see few goals.

After several struggles to create any decent chance, the best opportunity fell to Sheila Okeng in the 20th minute when she sent a powerful half volley that Djannba proved equal to.

Mali reacted well with a counter attack that made the Queens rear of Olivia Amoako, Aminatu Ibrahim, petit Mavis Danso and Yaa Avoe jittery. Avoa was compelled to go in with a hard tackle that resulted in a free kick close to the box.

Diarra Fatoumata sent a curly one that left goalkeeper Gladys Ento exposed but the ball missed narrowly.

Gradually both teams settled down and skipper Adjoa Bayor sent Adutwemwaa clear with a good chance but striker blasted the ball off target.

The Queens resumed the second half a better side and played well upfront but they failed to convert any of the chances they created.

Seventeen-year old debutant Anita Amankwaa's deft touches, accurate passes and fighting spirit proved that the future looks bright for the Ghanaians.

The Queens next game is against Cameroun in Ughelli on Wednesday.

Line UP Gladys Enti, Yaa Avoe, Mavis Danso, Olivia Amoako, Ibrahim Aminatu, Florence Okoe, Sjheila Okeng/Anita Wiredo-Minta, Adjoa Bayor, Adutumwaa Florence/Rahmonatu Ibrahim and Anita Amankwaa.