TotalEnergies CAF WAFCON 2026 Qualifiers – Second Round: Nigeria, Burkina Faso Take Control, Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire Draw
A thrilling Friday on African soil saw several decisive encounters in the second round of qualifiers for the TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, Morocco 2026.
Senegal 0-0 Côte d’Ivoire: Stalemate in Thiès
In Thiès, the highly anticipated clash between Senegal and Côte d’Ivoire ended in a goalless draw (0-0), after a physically intense and balanced match. The Lionnes de la Teranga, backed by a passionate home crowd, tried to impose their pressing and physicality, but the Ivorian defense remained solid throughout.
Coach Mame Moussa Cissé’s side dominated possession but could not convert key moments into goals. Côte d’Ivoire, under Reynald Pedros, relied on counter-attacks but lacked the finishing touch. The tie will now be decided in the return leg in Abidjan, where the Éléphantes will aim to secure a decisive advantage in front of their fans.
Kenya 3-1 Gambia: Harambee Starlets on Fire
In Nairobi, Kenya confirmed their progress with a convincing 3-1 victory over Gambia. The visitors struck first in the 3rd minute through Fatou Kanteh, capitalizing on a defensive error.
The Harambee Starlets responded immediately. Aisha Adam equalized in the 12th minute, followed by Faith Adhiambo giving Kenya the lead at the 19th. Just before halftime, Shalyne Opisa sealed a dominant first half with the third goal (45+2’).
In the second half, Kenya controlled the game, displaying composure, aggressive ball recovery, and offensive fluidity. A display of organization and determination marked the Harambee Starlets as a team on the rise.
Cape Verde 0-1 Mali: Dembélé Delivers
At Praia’s national stadium, Mali edged past Cape Verde (1-0) thanks to a decisive strike from Coumba Dembélé in the 60th minute. The Aiglonnes showcased experience and tactical discipline against a courageous but limited Cape Verde side.
Mali’s defensive block, supported by a vigilant goalkeeper, ensured the narrow lead was preserved until the final whistle, giving them a strong advantage ahead of the second leg.
Benin 0-2 Nigeria: Super Falcons in Control
The Super Falcons, reigning African champions, showed no signs of vulnerability in Cotonou, defeating Benin 2-0 with goals from Chinwendu Ihezuo (25’) and Chiwendu Okoronkwo (45+1’).
Nigeria dominated across all areas, combining technical superiority with strategic control. The forward duo Ajibade–Okoronkwo constantly threatened the Beninese defense, forcing multiple key saves.
Coach Justine Madugu fielded a blend of World Cup veterans and promising local talents, resulting in a controlled yet highly effective performance. With a two-goal cushion, Nigeria is well-positioned ahead of the return leg in Abeokuta.
Burkina Faso 2-0 Togo: Sawadogo and Kabré Shine
In Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso strengthened their qualification hopes with a 2-0 victory over Togo. After an evenly contested first half, the Étalons Dames asserted dominance in the second, both physically and tactically.
Rasmata Sawadogo broke the deadlock in the 65th minute after a sustained period of control, while Adèle Kabréconverted a late penalty (89’) to secure the win.
The Burkinabè demonstrated discipline and cohesion, while Togo will need near-perfect execution in the return leg in Lomé to overturn the deficit.
Friday’s results highlight Nigeria and Burkina Faso as frontrunners, while Senegal and Côte d’Ivoire set up a tense showdown for the second leg. The race for Morocco 2026 promises more drama in the coming fixtures.