Algeria Edge Botswana 1-0 in WAFCON 2024 Opener
Algeria began their TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2024 campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Botswana in their Group B opener, thanks to an early strike from Inter Milan midfielder Ghoutia Karchouni.
Played under the lights at Stade Père Jégo, the North Africans made a strong start, taking the lead in the 10th minute. Inès Boutaleb delivered a sharp cut-back from the right, which Karchouni coolly converted.
Botswana responded with determination, creating 10 attempts on goal—three of which tested Algerian goalkeeper Chaima Bouheni. However, Algeria’s defence stood strong, with Bouheni making key saves to maintain the slim advantage.
Algeria dominated much of the game, ending with 14 shots and seven on target, but couldn’t find a second goal despite sustained pressure.
In the closing stages, Botswana pressed for an equaliser, but Algeria’s organised defence held firm to secure all three points.
The win gives Algeria a positive start in Group B, while Botswana, though disappointed, can take heart from a spirited performance. They next face Nigeria’s Super Falcons on Thursday, while Algeria meets Tunisia in their second group match.
