Senegal’s Lionesses kicked off their 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign in style on Sunday, July 6, 2025, with a commanding 4-0 thrashing of DR Congo.
The emphatic win at El Bachir Stadium in Mohammedia sees Senegal surge to the top of Group A.
Following a thrilling 2-2 stalemate between hosts Morocco and Zambia in the tournament opener, all eyes turned to the second Group A showdown between Senegal and DR Congo. And the West Africans wasted no time stamping their authority.
Early Onslaught from Senegal
The Lionesses of Teranga burst out of the gates, dominating possession and applying early pressure.
It didn’t take long for their intent to be rewarded. In the fifth minute, skipper Mama Diop opened the scoring with a brilliant lob, expertly teed up by Méta Kandé.
The goals kept flowing. Just eight minutes later, Nguénar Ndiaye found the net after a well-timed assist from Adji Ndiaye (13’).
Senegal’s relentless momentum continued, and Mama Diop struck again in the 22nd minute, completing her brace and extending the score to 3-0.
DR Congo, despite flashes of resistance, were unable to cope with the Lionesses’ pace, precision, and physicality. Their backline was repeatedly breached, struggling to hold back the Senegalese tide.
Finishing Strong
As the first half drew to a close, Senegal capped off a stunning performance. Hapsatou Diallo delivered a pinpoint cross, and Nguénar Ndiaye rose to the occasion to grab her second goal, matching her captain’s brace.
The Lionesses entered the break with a dominant 4-0 lead, an advantage they would preserve for the remainder of the match.
With the three points secured, Senegal now sit atop Group A and have firmly established themselves as serious contenders in the competition.