Algeria defeat Senegal to make winning start at WAFCON 2026
Algeria opened their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign in impressive fashion with a 2-0 victory over Senegal in their Group A opener on Sunday evening in Rabat.
The North Africans delivered a composed and disciplined performance, with goals from captain Nguenar Ndiaye and Mélissa Bethi securing all three points and providing the perfect start in their bid to reach the knockout stages.
Although Senegal edged possession for much of the contest, Algeria proved more efficient in attack, creating the clearer opportunities and forcing five saves from the Senegalese goalkeeper while limiting their opponents to just two shots on target.
Senegal struck first in the 13th minute after winning a penalty, and skipper Nguenar Ndiaye confidently converted from the spot to put her side ahead early.
Algeria reacted well to the setback, gradually taking control of the game with purposeful attacking play while maintaining a solid defensive shape that frustrated Senegal's forward line.
Trailing by a single goal at halftime, Algeria returned with renewed energy and increased pressure after the break, dominating long spells of the second half.
A series of substitutions injected fresh impetus into Algeria's attack, while Senegal also reshuffled their lineup in an effort to find an equaliser.
The decisive moment arrived five minutes from full-time when Lina Boussaha delivered a well-weighted pass for Mélissa Bethi, who finished calmly to double Algeria's lead and seal the victory.
Senegal pressed forward in the closing minutes, but Algeria remained organized at the back to preserve their clean sheet and secure a deserved opening win.
The result gives Algeria an early boost in Group A ahead of their highly anticipated clash with hosts Morocco on Thursday. Senegal, meanwhile, will aim to bounce back when they face Kenya in their second group fixture on the same day.
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