Karchouni’s early goal lifts Algeria over Botswana to WAFCON victory

Algeria kicked off their 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) campaign with a 1-0 victory over Botswana in Casablanca. The Group B encounter saw few scoring chances and an intense battle in both halves.

The Fennecs started the duel on the right foot with a dominant display in the opening minutes. The Mares of Botswana struggled to keep the ball and were totally outplayed by the Algerians in the first 15 minutes.

Italy-based midfielder Ghoutia Karchouni broke the deadlock in the 10th minute with a finish from inside the area after Botswana players failed to clear a cutback from Ines Boutaleb.

The remainder of the first half saw strong Algerian play as they pushed to get a second goal through Amira Brahama and Lina Boussaha. Botswana looked very poor as they failed to register a single shot on goal during the half.

After the resumption, Botswana came out the stronger of the two nations, forcing the Algerians to defend their slender lead. Mokgabo Thanda should have leveled matters, but her header went inches wide in the 67th minute. Lesego Radiakanyo saw her effort from outside the box sail over the bar with a few minutes remaining.

Algeria returned to the WAFCON with a massive win. Botswana’s second appearance at the continental stage ended in defeat. Algeria are second in Group B with three points. Nigeria tops the standings, while Botswana and Tunisia are third and fourth.

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