Senegal discovered a demanding Group A assignment after the draw for the 14th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations took place on Thursday, confirming meetings with hosts Morocco, Algeria and Kenya at the tournament scheduled from 17 March to 3 April 2026.
Mame Moussa Cissé’s side learned its fate less than three months after sealing qualification for an expanded finals that will feature 16 nations for the first time.
Despite recent progress, the Confederation of African Football placed Senegal in Pot 3 alongside Mali, Egypt and Burkina Faso, a decision that shaped a challenging opening phase for the Lionesses.
History adds extra weight to the group. Senegal will face Morocco in the group stage for the third consecutive edition. In both the 2022 and 2024 tournaments, Morocco edged past Senegal with narrow 1-0 victories.
Once again, the Lionesses must confront the host nation in front of home support, knowing the fine margins that separated the sides in previous meetings.
Algeria also presents a serious obstacle. The Algerian women finished second in their group at the last finals and advanced to the quarter-finals before Ghana ended their run on penalties.
Recent results, however, offer Senegal encouragement. The two teams met in a friendly just before the previous Africa Cup of Nations, where Senegal claimed a clear 3-0 win. In July 2023, the Lionesses also recorded two victories in Thiès, winning 3-1 and 4-0.
Those outcomes give Senegal confidence, while Algeria will seek revenge on the continental stage.
Kenya completes Group A and enters the competition for only the second time. For the East African side, the tournament will bring valuable experience against more established opponents.
For Senegal, the fixture demands focus and professionalism to avoid costly mistakes in a tight group.
The stakes extend beyond continental pride. This Women’s Africa Cup of Nations will act as a qualifying pathway to the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil, with semi-finalists securing direct tickets.
Senegal reached the quarter-finals in the last two editions and now aims to go further, fully aware that progress from Group A will shape the entire campaign.
With preparation set to intensify ahead of the March kickoff, Senegal approaches the challenge with ambition and realism.
The draw promises intensity, history and pressure, all within a group that will test the Lionesses from the very first match.
