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A High-Stakes Encounter Between Senegal and Zambia
This Wednesday at 5pm (local time), the El Bachir Stadium in Mohammedia will witness a crucial match between two determined African nations: Senegal and Zambia. This encounter is pivotal for both teams as they continue their journey in the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s AFCON 2024 in Morocco.
Confidence and Determination
For the Senegalese team, a strong sense of confidence prevails. Their commanding opening victory against the Democratic Republic of the Congo (4-0) has set the tone for what they hope will be a successful campaign. The Lionesses of Teranga are approaching the competition with a mix of methodical strategy, ambition, and humility. “This match against Zambia is a challenge, a real test for our team,” said Mame Moussa Cissé, Senegal’s coach. “We are underdogs, but we will do our best to survive.”
Zambia, on the other hand, enters this game with a sense of frustration after drawing with Morocco on the opening day (2-2). Despite showing moments of dominance—12 shots, 8 on target, and clear missed chances—the Copper Queens felt they let a win slip away. Nora Häuptle, the Swiss coach leading the team, acknowledged these shortcomings. “We analyzed the match well. We were solid defensively, sharp in transition, but too imprecise,” she explained. “Against Senegal, we will have to be more patient and more realistic.”
Contrasting Philosophies
This match represents a clash of different playing styles. Senegal’s approach is built on a compact, robust, and strategic team that can press high up the pitch while maintaining discipline during weaker moments. In contrast, Zambia relies on verticality, rapid forward movement, and the power of their attacking duo: Barbra Banda and Racheal Kundananji.
Cissé highlighted the threat posed by Zambia’s attackers. “They’re a team with a lot of impact and speed. They can cause damage in a very short space of time,” he warned. However, he remains focused on his team’s strengths. “We’ll play to our strengths. We have to be clinical in both areas: efficient up front, solid at the back.”
Häuptle, for her part, takes a pragmatic stance. “Senegal is a physically impressive team, with many players accustomed to European competition. It’s up to us to respond in other areas, with our technique, our transitions, and better ball control.”
Key Players to Watch
On the Senegalese side, Korka Fall stands out as a key player. An experienced captain and a central figure in the dressing room for over 13 years, she remains a symbol of stability. “I’ve evolved a lot. I’ve learned to know my body, to protect myself, to be stronger mentally,” she said calmly.
Meanwhile, Zambia will rely heavily on Racheal Kundananji, whose fast-paced runs and decisive moves have been instrumental in previous matches. “We’ve turned the page after the Morocco game. Now we’re playing for our future. This match is crucial, and I’m here to help the team make the difference,” she said, her focus already set on the opposing goal.
A History That Shapes the Present
The last meeting between the two teams at the WAFCON in 2022 ended in a Zambian victory 4-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw. This result deprived Senegal of direct qualification for the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 in Australia & New Zealand. While Cissé chooses not to dwell on the past, he acknowledges the lessons learned. “I’m not seeking revenge. But we’ve worked on what prevented us from getting through. That’s what interests me.”
Zambia, however, remains confident. “It’s not a question of pressure. We know what we have to do. The ball is round, anything can happen, but we will give our all to turn our chances into goals,” concluded Kundananji.
A Match for Qualification
Senegal has the opportunity to secure qualification with a win, while Zambia aims to maintain control of their own destiny. Two teams, two ambitions, one urgency: to convince. Beyond the result, this match will also reveal where these two rising nations in African Women’s Football truly stand. All eyes are on Mohammedia, and this time, there will be no regrets.
