Zambia came from behind to secure a dramatic 3-2 victory over Senegal in Group A of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, held on Wednesday in Morocco.
The match, played with high tempo and intensity, saw the Senegalese Lionesses strike early.
In the 5th minute, Nguénar Ndiaye gave her side the lead after latching onto a precise pass from Méta Kandé.
However, Senegal’s advantage was short-lived.
Just seven minutes later, Zambia’s captain Barbra Banda found the equaliser, slotting home to make it 1-1 and shifting the momentum in favour of the Copper Queens.
As the second half began, Zambia seized control.
Senegal’s backline began to falter, allowing the Southern African side to capitalise.
Racheal Kundananji put Zambia ahead in the 51st minute with a composed finish, punishing slack defending.
The lead was extended in the 73rd minute when Barbra Banda struck again, her second of the evening and a decisive blow to Senegal’s hopes.
Trailing 3-1, the Lionesses were forced into action.
A rare defensive lapse from Zambia gave Senegal a lifeline.
Goalkeeper Ngambo Musole brought down Mama Diop after a through ball split the defence.
The referee pointed to the spot without hesitation, and Ndiaye stepped up to calmly convert the penalty in the 80th minute, narrowing the deficit to 3-2.
Despite a flurry of late efforts from Senegal in search of an equaliser, Zambia held firm, seeing out the final minutes with composure and tactical discipline.
The result lifts the Copper Queens to four points after two matches, putting them in a strong position heading into the final round of group fixtures.
Senegal, meanwhile, remain on three points and must now fight for progression in their last match.
This seesaw encounter showcased Zambia’s resilience and attacking depth, with Barbra Banda once again proving instrumental in her team’s fortunes.
For Senegal, the loss underlines the need for more defensive solidity as the competition intensifies.
The Women’s AFCON continues to deliver captivating matches, and with one group stage match remaining, both sides still have everything to play for.
