Algeria secured their place in the quarter-finals of the TotalEnergies CAF Women's Africa Cup of Nations with a 2-0 victory over Kenya on Tuesday evening, sealing second place in Group A behind hosts Morocco.
The North Africans produced an assured first-half display, striking twice inside the opening 30 minutes before managing the contest after the break to record a result that confirmed their progression to the knockout stages.
Captain Marine Dafeur gave Algeria the perfect start in the 14th minute with a stunning long-range free-kick that flew beyond the reach of Kenyan goalkeeper Lilian Awuor to put her side ahead.
Algeria doubled their advantage nine minutes later through relentless pressing from Lynda Bendris. Closing down goalkeeper Elizabeth Ochaka inside the penalty area, Bendris forced an error before firing goalwards. Although Awuor got a hand to the effort, the ball found its way into the net to leave Kenya with a mountain to climb.
The Harambee Starlets responded positively and nearly found a way back in the 26th minute when Martha Emedot struck a well-taken effort from distance, but her shot drifted narrowly wide of the target.
Algeria continued to threaten and almost added a third before the interval. Morgane Ikene rose highest to meet a cross in the 37th minute, only to see her header flash inches past the upright.
Kenya emerged after the break determined to reduce the deficit and enjoyed more possession as they searched for an opening. However, Algeria's disciplined defense limited clear-cut opportunities.
The East Africans' best chance arrived ten minutes from time when captain Mwanalima Jereko produced an excellent first touch to bring the ball under control before sending a low effort just wide of the post.
Despite Kenya's improved second-half display, Algeria remained in control to see out the contest and secure an important victory.
The result confirms Algeria's place in the quarter-finals after finishing second in Group A, one point behind tournament hosts Morocco, while Kenya exit the competition.
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