Algeria edge Cameroon to seal back-to-back Women’s AFCON qualification

Algeria have booked their place at the 2026 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations for the second successive edition, thanks to a decisive strike from Marine Dafeur.

The forward’s composed finish against Cameroon at the Stade de la Réunification in Douala on Tuesday sealed a 1–0 victory, confirming Algeria’s qualification with a 3–1 aggregate win.

The result follows their hard-fought 2–1 triumph in the first leg at Bir El Djir, completing a memorable qualifying campaign under head coach Farid Benstiti.

For Dafeur, her goal was more than a match-winner — it embodied the collective discipline, belief, and resilience of a team transformed over the past two years.

Born in France, Dafeur has become a talismanic figure for Les Vertes, reflecting the renewed sense of identity and ambition Benstiti has instilled since taking charge in 2022.

The French tactician’s emphasis on tactical balance, mental strength, and attacking efficiency has revitalised the side, guiding them through one of their most consistent periods in recent memory.

Cameroon, backed by a passionate home crowd, began the return leg strongly and controlled possession in the early stages.

Yet Algeria’s defensive organisation, marshalled by experienced leaders at the back, stood firm. Goalkeeper Nassima Oulebsir produced key interventions, while the midfield trio disrupted Cameroon’s rhythm with disciplined pressing and quick transitions.

Benstiti’s plan to exploit the hosts on the counter paid off midway through the first half. In the 22nd minute, Dafeur broke behind the Cameroonian backline and calmly slotted past the advancing goalkeeper — a moment of composure that silenced the Douala crowd and sent Algeria’s bench into jubilation.

The win not only confirms Algeria’s place among Africa’s elite but also underscores the nation’s steady progress in women’s football.

Since their first Women’s AFCON appearance in 2004, Les Vertes have evolved from underdogs into a more competitive and tactically mature outfit.

Their quarter-final finish in 2024 remains their best achievement, and expectations will be higher as they prepare for Morocco 2026.

With a solid foundation and renewed belief, Algeria’s journey under Benstiti continues to signal a new era of promise for North African women’s football.