Algeria delivered a commanding performance to defeat Senegal 2-0 in the opening match of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations at the Stade Olympique de Rabat on Saturday, signalling their intent to challenge for continental glory.
The North Africans broke the deadlock three minutes before the interval when M. Dafeur kept her composure from the penalty spot, converting with precision after an evenly contested opening period.
Senegal emerged from the dressing room with renewed purpose, introducing fresh legs in attack as they sought to overturn the deficit. Yet Algeria’s resolute defensive organisation neutralised the West African threat while remaining dangerous on the break.
The victory was secured in the 88th minute when M. Bethi, supplied by L. Boussaha, unleashed a clinical finish to seal all three points and hand Algeria a dream start to their campaign.
Despite Senegal enjoying 53 per cent possession against Algeria’s 47, it was the Algerians who demonstrated superior ruthlessness in the final third. They crafted four clear-cut goalscoring opportunities from ten attempts, while Senegal managed just one big chance from eleven shots – a statistic that underscored Algeria’s attacking efficiency.
The North Africans also registered 16 touches inside Senegal’s penalty area, reflecting their persistent offensive ambition throughout the 90 minutes.
South African referee Akhona Makhalima officiated the contest before a crowd of 21,000 at the Moroccan venue.
The result positions Algeria firmly at the summit of their group as they pursue a knockout-stage berth, while Senegal must regroup swiftly to revive their qualification aspirations in their next outing.