Algeria win WAFCON opener as blunder seals Senegal’s fate

Algeria secured a 2-0 victory over Senegal in their opening match of the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations, with a late blunder by the Senegalese goalkeeper proving decisive. Melissa Bethi sealed the win in the 88th minute after capitalizing on a weak clearance by Khady Faye.

Algeria had taken the lead in the 42nd minute when captain Marine Dafeur converted a penalty. The spot-kick, awarded by a South African referee, was deemed debatable by some, with minimal contact between Senegal's Korka Fall and Algeria's Amira Braham. Despite a VAR review upholding the decision, questions lingered about the call.

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A blunder by Senegal goalkeeper, Khady Faye, gifted Melissa Bethi a goal which clinched a 2-0 victory for Algeria on Sunday in the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations opener.

Senegal had started the match with early pressure but failed to create significant scoring opportunities. Algeria gradually asserted control with effective passing, ultimately earning a deserved victory. The match was played in Rabat, Morocco, the host nation and runner-up in the last two WAFCON editions.

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The penalty awarded to Algeria late in the opening half by the South African referee was debatable as there was minimal contact between Senegal captain Korka Fall and Amira Braham.