WAFCON 2026: Algeria Beat Senegal as Morocco Crush Kenya
Algeria opened their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a 2-0 victory over Senegal on Sunday, while hosts Morocco recorded a convincing 4-0 win over Kenya.
Senegal started the game brightly but failed to seriously threaten the Algerian goal as their opponents gradually took control.
Algeria took the lead in the 42nd minute after a penalty was awarded following a VAR review. Captain Marine Dafeur stepped up and calmly converted the spot-kick.
Senegal later had what appeared to be a similar penalty claim after an incident involving Algeria’s Lana Smits and Tall Pene, but the referee allowed play to continue.
Algeria sealed the victory in the 88th minute after a costly mistake by Senegal goalkeeper Khady Faye.
Faye’s weak clearance was intercepted, allowing Algeria to quickly launch an attack. Melissa Bethi then fired a low shot into the net to double Algeria’s lead.
In the other Group A match, Morocco made a strong start in front of their home supporters by defeating Kenya 4-0 at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat.
Ibtissam Jraidi scored twice, while Sakina Ouzraoui and Meriem Atiq also found the net for the hosts.
The victory sent Morocco to the top of Group A on goal difference, ahead of Algeria.
Defending champions Nigeria will begin their campaign on Tuesday when they face Malawi in Group C.
The 2026 WAFCON is scheduled to run from July 26 to August 16.
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