WAFCON 2024: Zambia defeat Senegal and revive their hopes | OneFootball

The Zambians claim a thrilling 3-2 win and stay in the race for the quarter-finals.

WAFCON 2024: Zambia defeat Senegal and revive their hopes

Zambia clinched a crucial victory over Senegal (3-2) on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, during the second matchday of Group A at the Women's Africa Cup of Nations in Mohammedia. The two sides battled through an intense contest, packed with twists and turns and a dramatic finale.

The second round of the 2024 Women's Africa Cup of Nations group stage kicked off tonight with a showdown between Zambia and Senegal. It was a do-or-die encounter for both teams, but especially for the Copper Queens, who had been held to a draw by Morocco in their opening game.

Intense first half and early goals

Senegal drew first blood in just the 5th minute through Nguenar Ndiaye, who latched onto a perfect pass from Méta Kandé to fire a low shot into the net. Zambia responded swiftly as Barbra Banda leveled the score in the 12th minute after a slick combination with Racheal Kundananji. Despite chances on both sides, the first half ended all square (1-1), highlighted by decisive saves from both goalkeepers and injuries that disrupted the tempo.

Banda and Kundananji shine, Ndiaye's brace not enough

Zambia seized the initiative in the second half with a goal from Racheal Kundananji in the 51st minute, before Banda netted her second of the night in the 73rd minute from a well-taken corner. Senegal refused to give in, pulling one back from the penalty spot in the 80th minute. First-half scorer Nguenar Ndiaye converted the penalty, awarded after Zambian goalkeeper Musole brought down an opponent and was cautioned for the foul.

Despite late pressure from Senegal, including several efforts blocked or parried by Musole, the Copper Queens held firm to seal a 3-2 victory. With these three points, Zambia are back in the qualification hunt after their opening defeat to Morocco. The Lionesses of Senegal, who looked strong in their first match, will need to bounce back in their final group game to keep their quarter-final hopes alive.