Algeria kicks off WAFCON campaign with victory after costly mistake decides Senegal's outcome

Algeria secured a 2-0 win over Senegal in the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations opener on Sunday, thanks in part to a late blunder by Senegal's Khady Faye, which allowed Melissa Bethi to score in the 88th minute.

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The match had also seen Algeria score in the opening half, with captain Marine Dafeur converting a penalty in the 42nd minute in Rabat.

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Later on Sunday, Morocco, the hosts and runners-up in the last two editions, were set to face Kenya in the other Group A match.

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Senegal had started strongly, creating early pressure, but ultimately failed to threaten Algeria's goal, as the latter took control with some impressive passing to achieve a well-deserved victory.

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Algeria had begun the match as slight favourites, given their higher ranking in Africa and the world, one and five places above Senegal, respectively.

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A debatable penalty was awarded to Algeria late in the first half by the South African referee, following minimal contact between Senegal's Korka Fall and Algeria's Amira Braham.

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After a VAR review supported the referee's decision, Bristol City midfielder Dafeur scored with a left-foot shot into the right corner of the net.

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However, a similar penalty-area foul by Algerian Lana Smits on Tall Pene just before the hour mark went unpunished, as play continued.

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Senegal's hopes of a draw were dashed when Faye's weak clearance was intercepted, and a quick pass set up Bethi to score with a low shot.

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Record 10-time champions Nigeria are set to debut on Tuesday in Group C against Malawi, who boast star forwards in the Chawinga sisters, Tabitha and Temwa, who play for Lyon and Kansas City Connect, respectively.