Hosts Morocco continued their impressive run at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) with a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Algeria, securing top spot in Group A and advancing to the quarter-finals with maximum points.
In front of a passionate home crowd, the Atlas Lionesses produced a disciplined performance, with Ibtissam Jraïdi scoring the decisive goal to separate the two North African rivals.
A Tightly Contested First Half
Both teams approached the match cautiously, knowing that a positive result would strengthen their position heading into the knockout stage.
Morocco enjoyed more possession and looked the more threatening side, while Algeria remained compact defensively and sought opportunities on the counterattack.
Despite several chances, neither side was able to break the deadlock during the opening 45 minutes.
Jraïdi Makes the Difference
The breakthrough finally arrived early in the second half.
In the 52nd minute, Ibtissam Jraïdi found space inside the penalty area and calmly finished past the Algerian goalkeeper to give Morocco a deserved 1–0 lead.
The goal sparked celebrations among the home supporters and gave Morocco the confidence to control the remainder of the match.
Algeria Push for an Equaliser
After falling behind, Algeria increased the intensity of their attacks in search of an equaliser.
However, Morocco’s defence remained well organised, limiting Algeria to very few clear-cut opportunities. Goalkeeper Khadija Er-Rmichi also produced a composed performance whenever she was called into action.
Despite Algeria’s late pressure, Morocco held on to secure another important victory.
Goalscorer
- 52′ – Ibtissam Jraïdi (Morocco)
Morocco Finish Group Stage in Style
The victory sees Morocco finish at the top of Group A, maintaining their unbeaten record and carrying strong momentum into the quarter-finals.
The Atlas Lionesses have impressed with their defensive solidity, attacking quality, and composure under pressure, reinforcing their status as one of the favourites to challenge for the WAFCON title on home soil.
Algeria Also Advance
Despite the defeat, Algeria’s performances throughout the group stage were enough to secure qualification for the quarter-finals.
Their disciplined displays and defensive organisation have made them one of the tournament’s surprise packages, and they will now turn their attention to the knockout rounds.
Final Thoughts
Morocco’s 1–0 victory over Algeria was a testament to patience, discipline, and clinical finishing. Ibtissam Jraïdi’s decisive second-half goal proved enough to secure all three points and send the hosts into the knockout stage as Group A winners.
With home support behind them and confidence growing with each match, Morocco will believe they have what it takes to make a deep run in WAFCON 2026, while Algeria can also take pride in reaching the quarter-finals and will look to cause more surprises in the next round.
