Karchouni Fires Algeria to Historic WAFCON Win Over Botswana

Posted : 07 July 2025

Algeria recorded a long-awaited win at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after securing a narrow 1-0 triumph over Botswana in their Group B encounter in Casablanca on Sunday. Ghoutia Karchouni’s early strike proved decisive as the North Africans celebrated their first victory in the competition since 2014, and only the third in their history at the continental finals.

The result was fully deserved, as Algeria showed greater cohesion and control throughout the match. Botswana, appearing in their second WAFCON, struggled to create meaningful chances and have now suffered five consecutive defeats in the competition. Four of those losses have come by just one goal, highlighting how close they have been despite the outcomes.

Algeria broke the deadlock in the 10th minute with a well-crafted move. Starting from the back, the team transitioned smoothly through midfield before Inès Boutaleb delivered a precise cut-back from the right flank. Karchouni met the pass with a first-time finish into the bottom left corner, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance.

The Algerians continued to press for a second, with Lina Boussaha nearly doubling the lead when her cross-shot narrowly missed the target. Marine Defeur also came close, forcing Botswana keeper Sedilame Boseja into a remarkable save from a curling free-kick—a potential early contender for the best save of the tournament.

Botswana had few clear-cut opportunities, though they did pose a threat from set pieces. Mokgabo Thanda’s header from a corner went just wide, while Laone Moloi squandered a golden chance with a free header that was directed straight at Algerian goalkeeper Chloe N’Gazi.

Despite the defeat, Boseja stood out with several key saves to keep the scoreline respectable and prevent Algeria from extending their lead.

Looking ahead, Algeria will face Tunisia in a North African derby on Thursday as they push for a first-ever knockout stage appearance at the WAFCON. Botswana, meanwhile, will have a tough task against tournament heavyweights and nine-time champions Nigeria, who earlier dispatched Tunisia 3-0 in their Group B opener.

With the top two teams from each group and the best two third-placed teams advancing to the quarter-finals, Algeria’s victory gives them a strong early footing in the race for progression.

Karchouni Fires Algeria to Historic WAFCON Win Over Botswana

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