Women's AFCON 2024 (Q): Senegal, Mali, Nigeria, Algeria and Tunisia win big

After Thursday's matches, several nations can begin planning for Morocco, which hosts the 2024 AFCON for a second consecutive edition. Nigeria, the most successful African nation in women's football, will be in Morocco barring a disaster as they seek another title. The Nigerians thrashed Cape Verde 5-0 and have almost secured their place. Defending champions South Africa cannot say the same. Banyana Banyana were held in Burkina Faso by the women’s Stallions (1-1). The South Africans had opened the scoring after half-time through Hildah Maigaia (56th minute), but Yasso Konaté equalised, keeping Burkina Faso’s chances of reaching Morocco alive.

Meanwhile, Senegal strengthened their chances of reaching a second consecutive Women’s AFCON, which would be a first for the Lionesses, by thrashing Egypt in the first leg (4-0). Marième Babou (26th), Nguenar Ndiaye (30th), Malado Diallo (67th) and Mbayang Sow (87th) scored. Mali also overwhelmed neighbours Guinea (7-2) to take a major step towards qualification. Algeria and Tunisia beat Burundi (5-1) and Congo (5-2) respectively, while Tanzania earned a valuable 3-0 win over Togo.