Algeria Begin WAFCON 2026 Campaign with 2-0 Victory Over Senegal
Algeria commenced their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) journey with a solid 2-0 victory over Senegal in Rabat, Morocco. Goals from Marine Dafeur and Melissa Bethi secured a comfortable win, placing Algeria at the top of Group A. This marks a strong start for the Desert Foxes in the expanded 16-nation tournament.
Algeria opened the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a 2-0 win over Senegal at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat, Morocco. Marine Dafeur gave the Desert Foxes the lead from the penalty spot in the 42nd minute after Senegal captain Korka Fall fouled Oud Braham inside the box.
The victory marks Algeria's first-ever WAFCON win over Senegal in their maiden meeting at the tournament. Algeria maintained control for much of the second half and doubled their advantage in the 88th minute through Melissa Bethi.
The forward capitalised on a poor clearance, beat her marker and fired home to put the result beyond doubt. Bethi recently signed a three-year contract with Washington Spirit in the United States.
The win places Algeria temporarily at the top of Group A with three points, while Senegal begin their campaign without a point. The group's other fixture sees tournament hosts Morocco face Kenya's Harambee Starlets later on Sunday. Algeria's impressive opening performance will boost their confidence as they pursue a place in the knockout stages.