The 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) has kicked off in style, and SuperSport on DStv and GOtv is proudly Here for Her—bringing fans closer to the action than ever before.
The opening round of group stage matches delivered excitement, passion, and standout performances that set the tone for what promises to be a memorable tournament. As we gear up for Matchday 2 on Wednesday, 9 July, here are four key takeaways from the early action.
Atlas Lionesses Disappoint as Home Hopefuls Struggle
Host nation Morocco began their campaign in Casablanca on Saturday, settling for a 2-2 draw with Zambia. Despite dominating possession and generating chances, the Atlas Lionesses found themselves trailing 2–1 at the hour mark before rescuing a point with an 87th-minute equalizer from Ghizlane Chebbak. Expectations were sky-high following their runner-up finish on home soil in 2022, but this result raises questions about Morocco’s consistency and killer instinct. With Senegal looming next, Morocco must sharpen their edge up front and tighten their defense to meet the weight of national expectation.
Senegal Emerges as Dark Horses
Senegal made a thumping statement in Group A with a commanding 4-0 victory over DR Congo on Sunday afternoon. Mame Moussa Cisse’s side humiliated the Congolese with goals from the in-form Mama Diop and Nguenar Ndiaye, both grabbing braces in the first half alone. This display reinforces Senegal’s growing reputation: they look set to reach the knockout stage in two consecutive WAFCON tournaments and are building continuity under Cisse. Comfortable in defence and clinical in transition, the Lionesses of Teranga are the surprise package in Group A – and look every bit dark horses.
Nigeria Make It Clear: Mission X Is Real
In Casablanca on Sunday evening, Nigeria left no doubt about their ambition. The Super Falcons, seeking to reclaim their WAFCON crown, dismantled Tunisia 3-0. Asisat Oshoala headed in a fourth-minute opener, followed by a precise finish from Omorinsola Babajide, and a composed seal-the-deal strike by Chinwendu Ihezuo late in the game. This clinical victory serves notice: under coach Justin Madugu, Nigeria are “showing real hunger” and establishing early dominance in Group B. With Algeria also winning 1–0 against Botswana, the Super Falcons have made a powerful first impression.
South Africa Start Title Defense Strong
Meanwhile, reigning champions South Africa, Banyana Banyana, kicked off their defense with a solid 2-0 win over Ghana in Oujda on Monday evening. First-half goals from Linda Motlhalo and Jermaine Seoposenwe gave them control of Group C early on. Coach Desiree Ellis emphasised that her squad is evolving to surpass their 2022 triumph, rejecting complacency and aiming to “reach a higher level”. Their efficient opening suggests they’re on track to do exactly that – even as Mali’s narrow win over Tanzania sets up a tightly contested group.
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