Senegal Women kicked off their CAF Women's African Cup of Nations campaign with a narrow but crucial 1-0 victory over Kenya Women in a tightly contested Group B encounter. A single first-half goal proved enough to secure all three points for the Lionesses of Teranga.

Match Overview

Played at a neutral venue in the WAFCON tournament, both teams knew the importance of a positive start in a group that is expected to be highly competitive. Senegal came into the match as slight favourites based on recent form and squad depth, but Kenya’s Harambee Starlets showed plenty of spirit and discipline throughout.

Key Moments

• 18th minute: Senegal took the lead with a well-worked team goal. A pass from midfield split the Kenyan defence, and the forward calmly slotted the ball past the advancing goalkeeper.
• 35th minute: Kenya had a golden chance to equalise when a cross found an unmarked striker at the far post, but her header went straight at the Senegal goalkeeper.
• 62nd minute: Senegal nearly doubled their advantage when a powerful strike from outside the box rattled the crossbar.
• 80th minute: Kenya pushed men forward in search of a leveller, but Senegal's defence held firm, with the centre-back making a crucial last-ditch tackle.

Tactical Story

Senegal set up in a 4-4-2 formation, prioritising defensive solidity while looking to hit on the break. Their goal came from a quick transition after winning possession in midfield. Kenya, organised in a 4-2-3-1, struggled to break down Senegal's compact defensive block but created half-chances from set pieces. In the end, Senegal’s experience in closing out games proved decisive.

Standout Players

• Senegal goalscorer: Took her chance clinically and worked tirelessly to hold up the ball and bring teammates into play.
• Kenya goalkeeper: Made several important saves to keep her team in the game, including a reflex stop from a close-range header.

Senegal's victory places them top of Group B with three points, building momentum for the rest of the tournament. Kenya, despite the loss, showed enough to suggest they can still progress with positive results in their remaining group matches.