Algeria face Botswana on Sunday in a pivotal Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) group stage encounter, as the second day of the tournament unfolds across Morocco.
The Algerian squad, under the guidance of coach Farid Benstiti, enters the match with a largely revamped team.
Only three players — Morgane Belkhiter, Imane Chebel, and Inès Boutaleb — remain from the side that competed in the 2018 edition.
The new-look team will be tested against a physically disciplined Botswana side known for their organisation and resilience.
Algeria’s preparations for the tournament included a friendly against Senegal, in which they suffered a 3-0 defeat at home.
While the result raised questions about the team’s readiness, it also served as a valuable learning experience for Benstiti’s youthful side.
In the same group, Nigeria and Tunisia are set to clash in what promises to be one of the day’s most anticipated fixtures.
Nigeria, the tournament’s most decorated nation with nine titles, are aiming to reclaim the trophy after missing out in the previous edition.
Tunisia, meanwhile, are full of ambition and looking to surpass their best-ever quarter-final finish.
The match will be held at Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca.
Group A action features Senegal against the Democratic Republic of Congo in Mohammédia.
Senegal arrive as favourites, having recently dominated Algeria in their warm-up fixture.
In contrast, DR Congo enter the competition in disarray, having suffered a morale-sapping defeat against Algeria and grappling with internal issues, including unpaid compensation for players.
The Congolese side, absent from the tournament since 2012, will be hoping to defy the odds and regroup quickly against a well-organised Senegalese outfit.
With expectations low but pride at stake, their performance could set the tone for their tournament.
Sunday’s full fixture schedule is as follows:
- Senegal vs DR Congo (Group A) – Stade El Bachir, Mohammédia
- Nigeria vs Tunisia (Group B) – Stade Larbi Zaouli, Casablanca
- Algeria vs Botswana (Group B) – Stade Père Jégo, Casablanca
As the tournament continues, these matches will be crucial in shaping the path to the knockout rounds.
For Algeria, a win over Botswana could be vital in asserting their credentials and building momentum in a competitive Group B.
