Algeria beats Senegal in WAFCON opener after goalkeeper mistake

A mistake by Senegal's goalkeeper, Khady Faye, gave Melissa Bethi a goal that helped Algeria win 2-0 on Sunday in the opening match of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.

Bethi scored in the 88th minute. Algeria also added a goal in the first half in Rabat when captain Marine Dafeur converted a penalty in the 42nd minute.

Morocco, the hosts and runners-up in the last two tournaments, will play against Kenya later on Sunday in another Group A match.

Senegal started strong but did not create real chances to score. Algeria took control of the game with good passing and earned a well-deserved victory.

Algeria was slightly favored going into the match. They are ranked one spot above Senegal in Africa and five spots higher in the world.

The penalty given to Algeria just before halftime by the South African referee was questionable. There was little contact between Senegal captain Korka Fall and Amira Braham.

After a VAR review confirmed the referee's decision, Dafeur took a left-foot shot that went into the right corner of the net.

Algerian player Lana Smits appeared to have committed a similar foul on Tall Pene in the penalty area just before the hour mark, but play continued.

Senegal's chance to at least get a draw ended when Faye made a weak clearance. The ball was intercepted, and a quick pass set up Bethi to score with a low shot.