Senegal claimed a 1-0 victory over Kenya in their TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2026 Group A clash. A first-half goal from Seynabou Mbengue proved to be the decisive factor in the match, which took place in Rabat.
The win allows Senegal to recover after a previous loss to Algeria. For Kenya, this marks their second consecutive defeat in the tournament, placing their hopes of advancing on the final round of group fixtures.
Match Highlights and Key Moments
Senegal started the match strongly, with Mbengue scoring the breakthrough goal. Her powerful strike left Kenya goalkeeper Lilian Awuor with no chance. The assist came from Bineta Seck, who found Mbengue in open space.
Kenya responded by creating their own opportunities. Mwanalima Jereko, the team captain, attempted a long-range shot in the 41st minute that went just over the crossbar. Towards the end of the first half, Senegal nearly extended their lead when Ndeye Awa Casset had a scoring chance, but Awuor made a crucial save, diverting the ball onto the crossbar.
In the second half, Kenya continued their search for an equaliser. Fasila Omondi tested Senegal goalkeeper Adji Ndiaye early on, but her shot was comfortably collected. A significant opportunity arose for Kenya in the 62nd minute when substitute Marion Serenge fired wide from close range.
![Harambee Starlets forward Tereza Engesha in action during their 2026 Wafcon match against Morocco at Stade Moulay Hassan, Rabat, on Sunday. [FKF Media]](https://news-kenya.co.ke/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/inline_gn-fdadca24974c_img-10.webp)
Despite sustained pressure from Kenya in the final minutes, Senegal maintained their narrow lead. Tereza Obunyu hit the woodwork with a low strike, and the rebound fell to Jereko, whose follow-up effort was saved by Ndiaye.
Team Performance and Tournament Context
Both Kenya and Senegal had lost their opening matches in Group A. Kenya suffered a 4-0 defeat to Morocco, while Senegal lost 2-0 to Algeria. This victory is crucial for Senegal‘s chances of progressing to the quarter-finals.
Kenya‘s coach, Beldine Odemba, had expressed anticipation for a challenging match against Senegal, noting their physical style of play. She had also highlighted the need for her players to improve their composure and conversion rate after their initial loss.
Senegal is considered a favourite for the match, being ranked higher than Kenya in the Fifa Women’s World Rankings. This encounter marks the first time these two nations have met in a match.
Senegal will conclude their Group A campaign against hosts Morocco. A positive result in that match could secure their place in the quarter-finals.
Kenya‘s recent form includes two wins in their last five international matches, beating Lesotho 4-0 and India 2-0. They also experienced losses to Morocco, Zambia (on penalties), and Australia.
This tournament marks Kenya‘s second appearance at the Wafcon, following their debut in 2016. The team, coached by Beldine Odemba, will need to perform well in their final group fixture to have any chance of advancing.
Senegal coach Mame Moussa Cissé had cautioned against underestimating Kenya, acknowledging their fighting spirit and talent. Senegal‘s goalkeeper, Adji Ndiaye, was called up to the senior national team at a young age.
The victory provides Senegal with three valuable points, putting qualification for the knockout stages firmly in their control.
Source: cafonline.com
