Algeria began their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) campaign with a narrow 1–0 victory over Botswana in their Group B opener at Stade Père Jégo on Tuesday night.
The decisive moment arrived in the 10th minute, when Inter Milan midfielder Ghoutia Karchouni coolly converted a cut‑back from Inès Boutaleb to hand the North Africans an early lead.
Algeria dominates possession and chances
From kick‑off, Algeria stamped their authority on the match, finishing with 14 shots—seven on target—compared to Botswana’s 10 efforts, three on target.
Boutaleb’s incisive run down the right flank and subsequent square ball into the box unlocked the visitors’ defence, allowing Karchouni to slot home with clinical composure.
Botswana’s resilience tested
Despite conceding early, Botswana showed notable resilience.
The Zebras created several opportunities of their own, pressing forward in search of an equaliser.
However, Algeria’s backline remained organized throughout, snuffing out dangerous raids, while goalkeeper Chaima Bouheni produced a string of vital saves to preserve her side’s clean sheet.
Late pressure fades as Algeria holds firm
As the clock wound down, Botswana intensified their search for a leveller, forcing Algeria into deeper defensive positions.
Yet timely interventions from defender Nassima Abidi and commanding presence in midfield from Kenza Dali ensured that Algeria’s slender advantage was never seriously threatened.
In stoppage time, a late free‑kick from Botswana narrowly cleared the crossbar, but the scoreline remained unchanged.
Implications for Group B
With three points secured, Algeria sits atop Group B and will carry confidence into their next fixture against Tunisia on Saturday. Botswana, meanwhile, must regroup quickly ahead of their clash with tournament favourites Nigeria’s Super Falcons on Thursday.
Although disappointed to come away empty‑handed, Botswana’s competitive display against a higher‑ranked side offers encouragement.
Algeria’s disciplined performance underlines their ambition to progress beyond the group stage for the first time in WAFCON history.
Head coach Farid Benstiti praised his players’ focus and adaptability, noting that an early goal “settled any nerves” and allowed the team to control the tempo.
Botswana coach Gaoletlhoo Nkele said his side “showed character” but lamented missed chances that could have earned them a draw.
