Zambia and Senegal will renew their rivalry on Wednesday when they face off in their second Group A fixture at the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2024 in Morocco.
The match is scheduled for 17:00 local time (16:00 GMT) at the El Bachir Stadium in Mohammedia, with both sides aiming to build on strong starts to the tournament.
This fixture will rekindle memories of their dramatic 2022 quarterfinal clash, where Zambia edged Senegal 4-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw.
On that occasion, Senegal took the lead through Nguenar N’Diaye before Zambia equalised via Avell Chitundu. History may weigh in Zambia’s favour — they remain unbeaten in their last three WAFCON matches against West African opposition.
Zambia head into the match after a thrilling 2-2 draw with hosts Morocco. Barbra Banda scored within the opening minute — the second-fastest goal in WAFCON history — and Racheal Kundananji also found the net.
The Copper Queens have not lost a group stage match since 2018 and are seeking to go unbeaten in their first two matches for the second straight tournament.
Senegal, meanwhile, will be brimming with confidence after their dominant 4-0 opening win over DR Congo — their biggest ever at WAFCON.
Mama Diop and Nguenar N’Diaye each bagged a brace, and the team showed attacking flair and control in the first half. A win on Wednesday would give them back-to-back group wins and clean sheets, just as they managed in 2022.
While Zambia boast individual brilliance in Banda and Kundananji, Senegal’s form and firepower in the final third cannot be overlooked.
This meeting promises a compelling battle between two sides with knockout-stage aspirations. With both teams seeking momentum, the outcome could prove decisive in shaping the group.