Algeria started their 2026 CAF Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) campaign off on a high note with a 2-0 win against Senegal in their opening Group A clash at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat.
The North Africans were solid and offer a studied and professional display as they made some oddball moves over the course of the game in a way that kept Senegal's attack at bay in an organised, clinical manner.
Only minutes before half-time, Marine Dafeur picked up the ball on a penalty kick and nailed her shot to put herself one step ahead.
Senegal had a bit more possession and suffered a lot of problems from finding clear-cut shots in front of a tight Algerian defence. Algeria's two shots on target were comfortably dealt with as they were able to keep their shape in the game and their discipline, which was what they did expect.
The Algerians were back with a vengeance and for the second half were looking to keep their pressure for as long as possible, even if they failed to always threaten the Senegalese defence as they always did, they did threaten it at times with as much vigour as it warranted.
Incisive midfielder Melissa Bethi went on to be rewarded with the award for TotalEnergies Woman of the Match for her performance, which included bringing Algeria's second goal, and was achieved by naming her.
The game was tied at half-time, but then Lina Boussaha played a first-class pass to Bethi for a decisive finish at the end, to swing the balance in her favour.
In the dying moments, Senegal sought a consolation goal but Algeria were composed to patiently maintain their clean sheet to sure up all three points.
With the win Algeria have an early head start over all the rest of Group A, ahead of their next encounter with the tournament host Morocco.
Senegal would be hoping to bounce back against the Harambee Starlets in their second group match.
