2024 women's AFCON: Algeria claims victory over Botswana in their opening match | OneFootball

Ghoutia Karchouni helps the Greens of Algeria kick off the tournament with a crucial win.

Algeria / Credit photo : X

Algeria defeated Botswana 1-0 on Sunday, July 6, 2025, in the opening match of Group B at the Women's AFCON at Stade Père Jégo. The Greens secured three points to start the tournament and moved into second place in their group, just behind the Super Falcons.

Following the Nigeria vs Tunisia clash, which ended in a resounding 3-0 victory for the Super Falcons, the second fixture in Group B of the 2024 Women's AFCON saw Algeria's Greens face the Botswana Mares in Casablanca.

A perfect start for the Greens

From the opening minutes, Algeria displayed tremendous determination. Farid Benstiti's squad, buoyed by the experience of Sofia Guellati and the youthful energy of the team, quickly took control of the game. In the 10th minute, Ghoutia Karchouni broke the deadlock with a precise shot, giving her team the lead. This goal allowed the Fennecs to approach the rest of the match with greater composure.

Botswana too imprecise despite growing into the game

After struggling to match the pace in the first half, the Botswana players raised their game in the second period. Leungo Senwelo and Lesego Radiakanyo notably tested Chloé N’Gazi with powerful strikes. The Algerian goalkeeper stood firm, making a series of crucial saves—most notably from a well-placed attempt by Moloi in the 76th minute. Botswana piled on the pressure late on, but Algeria's well-organized defense held strong. A few inaccuracies in the final third and a lack of clinical finishing prevented the Batswana from leveling the score.