Kenya’s Wafcon dream dies in Rabat as Algeria seals Starlet’s fate

Having lost their opening two matches against hosts Morocco (4-0) and Senegal (1-0), Kenya went into Monday's match knowing that only a win would keep their slim qualification hopes alive.

Coach Beldine Odemba's team showed better defensive organisation, but found it hard to get past a well-disciplined Algerian team.

Algeria got off to a flying start in the 14th minute when captain Marine Dafeur curled a superb long-range free kick beyond Kenyan goalkeeper Lilian Awuor to put the North Africans in the lead.

They doubled their advantage nine minutes later after relentless pressing forced a costly error. Lynda Bendris capitalised on a misplaced pass from defender Elizabeth Ochaka before finishing past Awuor. The goalkeeper managed to get a hand to the ball, but could not prevent it from crossing the line.

Kenya attempted to respond before half-time, with Martha Emedot firing narrowly wide from a distance in the 26th minute. Algeria continued to threaten, nearly adding a third in the 37th minute when Morgane Ikene's header drifted just past the upright.

The Starlets enjoyed more possession after the restart and showed greater composure in midfield, but Algeria's organised defence limited them to few clear-cut opportunities.

Kenya's best chance came late in the game when captain Mwanalima Jereko controlled the ball brilliantly inside the box before sending a low shot just wide of the post.

Earlier, Emedot had also come close, but was thwarted in a one-on-one situation by the Algerian goalkeeper, Chloé Yamina N'Gazi.

Algeria managed the second half well to secure the win and second place in Group A, earning themselves a quarter-final berth.

This was Kenya’s third successive group-stage loss, ending their Wafcom campaign without a point.

In the other fixture in the group, hosts Morocco secured top spot after being held to a goalless draw by Senegal at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat.

Although the Atlas Lionesses were unable to complete a perfect campaign in the group stage, the draw was enough to see Jorge Vilda's side finish unbeaten with seven points. They also maintained an impressive defensive record, not conceding a goal in the tournament.

Morocco dominated possession throughout the contest, creating better opportunities through Ghizlane Chebbak, Sakina Ouzraoui and Elodie Nakkach. However, Senegal's disciplined defensive display frustrated the hosts.

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The defining moment came in the 69th minute, when Morocco were awarded a penalty. Yasmin Mrabet stepped up, but Senegal's outstanding goalkeeper, Adji Ndiaye, saved the shot. However, the penalty was ordered to be retaken. Ndiaye guessed correctly again to deny Mrabet for a second time and preserve Senegal's clean sheet.

Vilda introduced Fatima Tagnaout and Najat Badri in search of a breakthrough, while Senegal remained organised and threatened on the counterattack several times. Despite Morocco's sustained pressure, neither side could score.

Morocco finished top of Group A with seven points, ahead of Algeria (six points) who claimed second place after defeating Kenya. Senegal ended the group stage in third place with four points, while Kenya finished bottom without a point.

Morocco advanced to the quarter-finals as group winners and will face the runners-up from Group B.

Algeria also progressed to the knockout stage after an impressive group campaign. Senegal exit the tournament with their heads held high, having amassed four points.

Final Group A Standings

Morocco – 7 points (Qualified)

Algeria – 6 points (Qualified)

Senegal – 4 points (Eliminated)

Kenya – 0 points (Eliminated)

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