Algeria edge Botswana 1-0 in a tight WAFCON opener to claim vital Group B points.
Ghoutia Karchouni’s early strike seals the win as Algeria eye knockout stage qualification.
Algeria secured a hard-fought 1-0 win over Botswana to start their 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) campaign on a positive note. The Group B clash took place on Sunday, July 6, marking Algeria’s sixth appearance at the continental tournament.
Midfielder Ghoutia Karchouni netted the decisive goal in the 10th minute, finishing off a swift move with a composed strike that beat the Botswana goalkeeper. Despite efforts by the Mares of Botswana to level the score, Algeria’s defense held firm, ensuring they secured all three points.
The match was closely contested, but Algeria’s experience and tactical discipline gave them the edge in a game that saw limited clear-cut chances for both teams. Botswana, making their third appearance at the WAFCON, showed glimpses of promise but lacked the clinical touch in the final third.
With the result, Algeria now sit second in Group B with three points, tied with Nigeria’s Super Falcons, who earlier on Sunday claimed a commanding 3-0 victory over Tunisia. Nigeria tops the group on goal difference, followed by Algeria, while Botswana and Tunisia sit in third and fourth place, respectively.
Algeria will now shift their focus to a potentially decisive clash against Tunisia on Thursday, July 10. A win could secure their place in the knockout stages. Tunisia, meanwhile, will be looking to bounce back from their opening-day loss and keep their qualification hopes alive.
Super Falcons’ victory came courtesy of goals from Asisat Oshoala, Rinsola Babajide, and substitute Chinwendu Ihezuo, marking Nigeria’s first-ever WAFCON win against Tunisia.
The upcoming matchday in Group B promises high stakes as teams jostle for top spots in what is shaping up to be a competitive group. Algeria’s early win gives them momentum, but the road ahead remains tough.
