WAFCON 2024: Nigeria, Senegal lay down early markers as Algeria grind out gritty win over Botswana

Nigeria and Senegal made strong opening statements in their respective groups at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, while Algeria celebrated a hard-fought win as the continental showpiece got into full swing in Morocco, Soccernet.ng reports.

In Group B, nine-time champions Nigeria showed why they remain the team to beat with a commanding 3-0 victory over Tunisia at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca.

Goals from star forward Asisat Oshoala, Tenerife winger Rinsola Babajide, and Mexican-based striker Chinwendu Ihezuo capped off a dominant performance from the Super Falcons.

It was a milestone win for Nigeria, their 29th victory in the group stage of the WAFCON and their first-ever tournament triumph over Tunisia.

As the only team in the competition currently ranked within FIFA’s top 40, the Falcons have set their sights firmly on a record-extending 10th title.

Nigeria’s bright start propelled them to the top of Group B, ahead of Algeria who secured a narrow 1-0 win over Botswana in the evening kick-off at the Père Jégo Stadium, also in Casablanca.

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While it lacked the goal rush of the earlier encounter, Algeria’s victory was no less significant.

A 10th-minute strike from 30-year-old midfielder Ghoutia Karchouni was enough to see off Botswana and hand the Fennecs only their third-ever win in the group stage of the WAFCON.

Botswana, who reached the quarterfinals on their tournament debut in 2022, failed to match expectations and now face an uphill battle to reach the knockout rounds. The southern Africans sit third in Group B, while Tunisia are bottom following their loss to Nigeria.

Matchday two promises more drama as Nigeria take on Botswana, while Algeria and Tunisia face off in a high-stakes North African derby.

Earlier on Sunday, Senegal turned in the performance of the day with a thumping 4-0 win over DR Congo to take control of Group A.

Veteran striker Nguenar Ndiaye and Marseille forward Mama Diop, both 30, bagged a brace apiece to boost Senegal’s growing credentials.

The result sent Senegal to the top of the group, ahead of hosts Morocco and Zambia, who played out a pulsating 2-2 draw in the tournament’s opening fixture on Saturday.

With one more win, Senegal could seal early qualification for the quarterfinals.

Attention now turns to Group C action on Monday, where defending champions South Africa face three-time runners-up Ghana in a heavyweight clash in Oujda.

Elsewhere, Mali will battle Tanzania, who return to the WAFCON for the first time since 2010.