WAFCON 2026: Algeria Down Senegal In Tournament Opener

Algeria got their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign off to a perfect start with a comfortable 2-0 victory over Senegal in the tournament’s opening match.

The North Africans struck once in each half to overcome the Lionesses of Teranga and temporarily move to the top of Group A.

Both sides battled intensely in an evenly contested first half, with clear-cut chances at a premium before Algeria eventually broke the deadlock.

Read Also:WAFCON 2026: Payne Targets Back-To-Back Titles With Super Falcons

Bristol City midfielder Marine Dafeur calmly converted a penalty three minutes before the interval to hand Farid Benstiti’s side a deserved lead.

Senegal pushed for an equaliser after the restart, but Algeria remained organised at the back and continued to threaten on the counterattack.

Melissa Bethi sealed the victory in the 88th minute, finishing off a well-worked move to put the result beyond doubt.

The win sends Algeria to the summit of Group A ahead of the second fixture, where hosts Morocco will take on Kenya’s Harambee Starlets later on Sunday.

By Adeboye Amosu