WAFCON 2026: Algeria begin campaign with convincing win over Senegal

Algeria made a strong start to their TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2026 campaign after defeating Senegal 2-0 in their opening Group A fixture at Rabat on Saturday evening.

The North Africans produced a disciplined and efficient performance to secure all three points, with goals from Nguenar Ndiaye and Mélissa Bethi sealing an important victory in their pursuit of a place in the knockout stages.

Senegal enjoyed more possession during the encounter but Algeria displayed greater attacking efficiency, forcing five saves from their opponents while limiting the West Africans to only two shots on target.

The breakthrough arrived in the 13th minute when Senegal were awarded a penalty. Captain Nguenar Ndiaye stepped up and calmly converted from the spot to give Algeria an early advantage.

Algeria responded well after conceding, growing into the match and showing increased attacking ambition while maintaining defensive discipline to keep Senegal’s threats under control.

Although Senegal went into the halftime break with the lead, Algeria returned from the interval with renewed energy and began applying more pressure on their opponents.

The introduction of fresh players in the second half helped Algeria sustain their intensity, while Senegal made several changes in an attempt to find a way back into the contest.

However, Algeria put the game beyond Senegal’s reach five minutes from full time when Mélissa Bethi finished clinically after receiving a well-timed assist from Lina Boussaha to double their advantage.

Senegal pushed for a late response, but Algeria remained composed defensively to protect their clean sheet and claim a valuable opening victory.

The result gives Algeria a perfect start ahead of their much-anticipated clash with tournament hosts Morocco on Thursday. Senegal, meanwhile, will aim to bounce back when they face Kenya in their next Group A fixture on the same day.