Clinical Algeria Defeat Senegal to Make Winning Start at 2026 WAFCON

Posted : 27 July 2026

Algeria began their TotalEnergies CAF Women's Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2026 campaign with a deserved 2-0 victory over Senegal in their Group A opener in Rabat. The North Africans combined defensive discipline with clinical finishing to secure three valuable points and strengthen their hopes of reaching the knockout stage.

After an evenly contested opening period, Algeria broke the deadlock just before half-time. Captain Marine Dafeur calmly converted a penalty in the 42nd minute after a VAR review upheld the referee's decision following a challenge on Amira Braham. The goal gave Algeria a deserved lead heading into the interval after they gradually took control of the contest.

Senegal enjoyed more possession during spells of the match but struggled to create clear-cut chances against an organised Algerian defence. The Lionesses managed only two shots on target, while Algeria looked far more dangerous in the final third and repeatedly tested goalkeeper Khady Faye.

The North Africans continued to defend confidently after the break while looking dangerous on the counterattack. Head coach Farid Benstiti introduced fresh legs in the second half, helping Algeria maintain their attacking threat as Senegal searched for an equaliser.

Algeria sealed the victory in the 88th minute through Mélissa Bethi. The midfielder capitalised on a defensive mistake before finishing confidently to double her side's advantage and put the result beyond doubt. Bethi's strike capped an impressive personal performance as she was named Player of the Match.

After the final whistle, Senegal head coach Mame Moussa Cissé admitted that individual mistakes proved costly for his team. He said Senegal gave Algeria too much space and promised that the coaching staff would analyse the performance before focusing on their next Group A fixture against Kenya.

The victory moves Algeria into a strong early position in Group A ahead of a crucial meeting with tournament hosts Morocco. Senegal, meanwhile, must respond quickly when they face Kenya to keep their qualification hopes alive. Algeria's disciplined display also marked the country's first-ever Women's Africa Cup of Nations victory over Senegal, providing another boost to their growing confidence under Benstiti.

Clinical Algeria Defeat Senegal to Make Winning Start at 2026 WAFCON

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