By Obaloluwa Joshua, LAGOS
Algeria opened their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a comfortable 2-0 victory over Senegal in the tournament’s opening match.
Farid Benstiti’s side controlled much of the contest and deservedly took the lead three minutes before half-time when captain Marine Dafeur calmly converted from the penalty spot to become the first goalscorer of the 2026 WAFCON.
Senegal battled to find a way back into the game after the break but struggled to create clear-cut chances against a disciplined Algerian defence.
Algeria sealed all three points two minutes from time when Melissa Bethi finished off a superb move, calmly slotting home after a delightful exchange with Lina Boussaha.
The victory extends Algeria’s impressive record in WAFCON opening matches, with none of their six tournament openers ending in a draw.
Benstiti, who guided the Fennecs to a historic quarter-final appearance at the 2024 edition, will now be hoping to lead his side even deeper into the competition this time around.
Senegal will look to bounce back when they face hosts Morocco in their next Group A fixture, while Algeria will aim to build on their winning start in their second group game.
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