Mohammedia, Morocco – The TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2024 continues with a tantalizing Group A clash as Senegal’s Lionesses of Teranga face DR Congo’s Léopards Dames on Sunday, July 6, 2025, at the Stade El-Bachir in Mohammedia (15:00 local time).
This encounter is more than just an opening match—it’s a battle of ambition, redemption, and resurgence. Senegal, riding high on their quarter-final finish in 2022, aim to go further, while DR Congo, back after a 12-year absence, look to recapture past glory.
Senegal’s Rise: From Struggles to Contenders
Senegal’s journey in WAFCON has been one of gradual ascent. Their 2012 debut was forgettable—three losses, zero goals scored, including a 1-0 defeat to DR Congo (courtesy of Lucie Nono’s 74th-minute penalty). Fast forward to 2022, and the Lionesses roared into the quarter-finals, defeating Uganda (2-0) and Burkina Faso (1-0) before a heartbreaking penalty shootout loss to Zambia.
Now, Coach Mame Moussa Cissé has set his sights higher: “The group wants to write a new page in its history.” With a mix of experience and emerging talent, Senegal enters this tournament with semi-final ambitions.
Key Players to Watch:
- Ndeye Awa Diakhaté (Olympique de Marseille): Scored Senegal’s first-ever WAFCON finals goal in 2022—a speedy, clinical forward.
- Safietou Sagna (Captain): A rock at right-back, leading by example with defensive solidity.
- Nguenar Ndiaye: A rising offensive threat, crucial in qualifiers and recent friendlies.
Senegal’s recent form is encouraging—a 3-0 thrashing of Algeria (July 1, 2025) and two friendly wins over DR Congo (1-0 and 2-0 in July 2024). Defender Maréme Babou emphasized the importance of a strong start: “The match against DR Congo is very important—it sets the tone. We are ambitious and hope to do better than last CAN.”
DR Congo’s Return: A Chance to Shock Africa
The Léopards Dames are back at WAFCON after over a decade, carrying the weight of history. Their best finish was third in 1998, and their last appearance in 2012 saw them stun Senegal in a match where they arrived on the same day via TP Mazembe’s plane—yet still won.
This time, they lean on Merveille Kanjinga, their star striker nicknamed “Cyborg” for her ice-cold finishing. Fresh off leading TP Mazembe to the 2024 CAF Women’s Champions League title, she recently signed for Paris Saint-Germain, adding European pedigree to Congo’s attack.
Challenges & Optimism
Despite Kanjinga’s brilliance, DR Congo’s recent form is concerning—nine losses in their last eleven matches, including defeats to Tanzania and Algeria in pre-tournament friendlies. Yet, their squad—featuring players from France, Saudi Arabia, and beyond—has the talent to surprise.
A DR Congo staff member framed this tournament as “a great showcase for our football,” while the team hopes to channel the men’s national team’s recent successes for inspiration.
Tactical Battlegrounds & Prediction
- Senegal’s Experience vs. DR Congo’s Individual Brilliance: Senegal’s structured defense, led by Sagna, must contain Kanjinga.
- Midfield Control: Senegal’s cohesion could overpower Congo’s patchwork preparation.
- Set Pieces & Penalties: Given past drama (2012’s penalty decider), dead-ball situations may prove decisive.
Final Thoughts
Senegal enters as favorites, but DR Congo thrives as underdogs. Will the Lionesses exact revenge for 2012, or will the Léopards roar again in another upset?
Prediction: Senegal 2-1 DR Congo – A hard-fought win, but Kanjinga ensures Congo doesn’t go down quietly.
Don’t miss this thrilling WAFCON opener—history, pride, and continental glory are all at stake!
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