Algeria’s women’s national team has learned of a new opponent in the qualifiers for the 2016 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (CAN). Initially scheduled to face Togo in the first round, the Fennecs will now take on Ethiopia following the late withdrawal of the Togolese side.
The Epervières announced their decision to pull out at the end of last week, forcing the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to revise the qualification schedule. The Togolese withdrawal not only disrupts the competition but also results in disciplinary sanctions. According to the Togolese Football Federation (FTF), CAF has formally penalized Togo for failing to honor its fixtures, while simultaneously confirming Ethiopia as Algeria’s new rival.
The FTF statement explained:
> *“Ethiopia has been re-qualified and will have to play against Algeria in early March in Algiers. The return match will be played in Addis Ababa two weeks later.”*
For Algeria, this development means that qualification for the next round must now be earned on the pitch rather than through automatic advancement. The Fennecs will host the first leg in Algiers before traveling to Ethiopia for the decisive return fixture.
This change presents both challenges and opportunities for Algeria. On one hand, Ethiopia represents a tougher opponent than Togo, with the Lucy’s having developed a growing reputation in African women’s football. On the other hand, the Fennecs will benefit from beginning the tie at home, where they will seek to secure a convincing result before heading to Addis Ababa.
The Algerian women’s team, determined to make its mark on the continental stage, will now need to quickly adjust its preparations. The unexpected switch in opponents demands tactical flexibility from the coaching staff, as Ethiopia’s style of play differs significantly from that of the now-withdrawn Togolese side.
The Women’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers remain a critical opportunity for Algeria, who aim to secure their place in the finals and continue building momentum for women’s football in the country. With the tournament set for later this year, every fixture takes on heightened importance in the race for continental glory.
For now, the focus will be on the March clash against Ethiopia — a test that will determine whether Algeria advances to the next round of qualifying.
