2026 U20 Women World Cup Qualifiers: Algeria fall to Senegal in first leg

Algeria’s U20 women’s national team suffered a 2-0 defeat against Senegal in the first leg of their second-round qualifier for the 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup.

The match took place on Saturday, 20 September 2025, at the Lat Dior Stadium in Thiès.

Senegal struck early, seizing control within the opening ten minutes.

Marie Louise Sarr put the hosts ahead in the 4th minute before Khadija Badio doubled the advantage just five minutes later.

The quick-fire goals left Algeria chasing the game, and despite efforts to recover, the visitors struggled to find a breakthrough against a disciplined Senegalese defence.

The Greens managed to steady themselves after the early setback, showing greater composure as the game progressed.

However, their attempts to claw back into the contest fell short, with Senegal maintaining control and preserving their lead through to the final whistle.

For Algeria, the result presents a significant challenge ahead of the return fixture, scheduled for Saturday, 27 September 2025, at the Mustapha Tchaker Stadium in Blida.

With home advantage and local support, the team will be hoping to overturn the two-goal deficit and keep their World Cup hopes alive.

The second leg will demand both resilience and attacking precision from the Algerian side, who must win by at least two goals to force extra time, or by a greater margin to advance directly.

The task is steep, but not impossible, particularly with the passionate backing expected in Blida.

Senegal, meanwhile, head into the decisive match with a strong advantage and growing confidence.

Their clinical finishing and solid defensive structure in Thiès highlighted their readiness for the qualifying campaign, making them firm favourites to progress to the next round.

For Algeria, the focus will be on correcting the lapses that proved costly in the opening minutes of the first leg.

A stronger start and greater efficiency in front of goal will be vital if they are to mount a successful comeback.

The tie remains open, but Algeria must deliver a near-perfect performance in the return leg to keep their World Cup journey alive.

The clash in Blida promises high stakes and intense drama as both nations push for a place in the third qualifying round.