Morocco, Algeria qualify for 2027 Women's World Cup

Hosts Morocco and Algeria both secured victories in their Women's Africa Cup of Nations quarterfinals on Saturday, August 8, 2026, booking their places in the semifinals and automatically qualifying for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil. The two North African nations became the first teams from the continent to secure their spots at the global tournament through the continental pathway.

In Rabat, Morocco built a two-goal lead and defended resolutely to defeat South Africa 2-1. The Atlas Lionesses took the lead in the 31st minute when Sakina Ouzraoui scored with a first-time finish, her second goal of the tournament. Morocco doubled their advantage six minutes into the second half when Hanane Ait El Haj converted from the penalty spot. South Africa's Thembi Kgatlana pulled a goal back in the 67th minute with a powerful strike, but the hosts held on for the win. The victory marked Morocco's second successive World Cup appearance, following their historic run to the knockout stages at the 2023 tournament.

In Casablanca, Algeria produced a dramatic comeback to defeat Ivory Coast 2-1. The Ivorians took the lead in the 30th minute through Ines Konan. However, the match turned...