Algeria booked their place in the semi-finals of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after coming from behind to defeat Ivory Coast 2–1 in a dramatic quarter-final encounter.
The Algerians showed tremendous character after conceding first, scoring twice in the second half to complete an impressive comeback.
Ivory Coast Strike First
Ivory Coast took the lead in the 29th minute through Inès Konan, who found the back of the net to give the Elephants a 1–0 advantage.
The goal gave Ivory Coast confidence as they looked to control the match and protect their lead.
However, Algeria refused to panic.
Algeria Fight Back
The turning point came in the second half.
In the 58th minute, Inès Khiri equalised for Algeria, bringing the score to 1–1 and putting the North Africans back into the contest.
Just six minutes later, Algeria completed the comeback.
Amira Ould Braham scored in the 64th minute to give Algeria a 2–1 lead.
Ivory Coast Miss Penalty
Ivory Coast had a major opportunity to level the match when they were awarded a penalty in the 62nd minute.
However, Rebecca Elloh was unable to convert the spot kick, missing an opportunity that could have changed the outcome of the quarter-final.
Algeria subsequently held on to their advantage.
Goalscorers
- 29′ – Inès Konan (Ivory Coast)
- 58′ – Inès Khiri (Algeria)
- 64′ – Amira Ould Braham (Algeria)
Algeria Reach the Semi-Finals
The victory sends Algeria into the WAFCON 2026 semi-finals, continuing what has been an impressive tournament for the North Africans.
Their ability to recover from conceding first will give the team considerable confidence heading into the final stages of the competition.
For Ivory Coast, the result brings their campaign to an end despite a strong effort. They had the opportunity to equalise from the penalty spot but could not take advantage.
Final Thoughts
Algeria’s 2–1 victory over Ivory Coast was a thrilling quarter-final comeback.
Inès Konan put Ivory Coast ahead, but Inès Khiri restored parity before Amira Ould Braham completed Algeria’s comeback six minutes later.
The result sends Algeria into the semi-finals, while Ivory Coast bow out after a hard-fought campaign.
