Zambia secure first 2024 WAFCON victory after entertaining battle with Senegal

The Cooper Queens of Zambia secured their first victory at the 2024 edition of the Women’s Africa Cup Of Nations (WAFCON) after coming from behind to edge Senegal in a 3-2 thriller on Wednesday at the Stade El Bachir in Mohammédia, Morocco.

Zambia, who opened WAFCON 2024 with a two-all draw against host Morocco, fell behind after five minutes of play as Nguenar Ndiaye put Senegal ahead. However the lead was short-lived as Racheal Kundananji set up captain Barbra Banda to level for the Copper Queens going into the halftime break.

Senegal lost their grip in the second half as Kundananji fired the Copper Queens to the lead just six minutes after halftime.

After a strong effort from Senegal, it was Banda who put the game out of reach for her side by completing her brace after Senegal goalkeeper Adji Ndiaye blocked a shot from Kundananji.

Senegal star Ndiaye reduced the deficit for the Lionesses of Teranga as she scored her second goal in the match from the penalty spot in the 80th minute but it was a little too late for the Teranga Lionesses to salvage a draw.

The defeat sees Senegal drop to second place in Group A as Zambia moves to first place for the time being. Morocco and DR Congo will finish the action from Group A later on Wednesday evening. Zambia next face DR Congo on Saturday while Senegal face hosts Morocco on the same day to finish play in Group A.

Group A Table