Senegal’s women’s national team will take on Ivory Coast in the second round of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers after their scheduled first-round clash against Chad was cancelled.
Originally set to face Chad in a two-legged encounter, the Lionesses advanced automatically after their opponents withdrew from the competition.
However, they now face a much sterner test in Ivory Coast, who were exempted from the first round and will be entering the qualifiers at this stage.
A high-stakes encounter
Both teams are considered strong contenders in African women’s football, making this second-round clash a crucial hurdle on the road to the tournament.
With Ivory Coast having had additional preparation time and a strengthened squad, Senegal will need to be at their best to secure qualification.
The first leg is scheduled to take place on October 20, with the return fixture set for October 28.
Senegal prepares for a tough challenge
The Lionesses, who have been steadily improving in recent years, will need to capitalize on their momentum to overcome a determined Ivorian side.
With a place at the Women’s AFCON at stake, the two teams are expected to deliver a fiercely contested battle over the two legs.
As the qualifiers progress, all eyes will be on this West African showdown, with both nations eager to secure their spot in the continental tournament.