Morocco and Algeria win opening matches at WAFCON 2026

The 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations kicked off with a pair of decisive victories in Group A, as tournament hosts Morocco and Algeria both secured convincing wins to set up a pivotal North African derby later this week. The expanded 16-team tournament, which runs from July 26 to August 16 in Morocco, also serves as Africa's qualification pathway for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup.

Hosts Morocco made a powerful statement on Sunday, July 26, with a dominant 4-0 victory over Kenya at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat. Ibtissam Jraidi scored twice, while Sakina Ouzraoui Diki and Maryame Atiq also found the net as the Atlas Lionesses built a commanding three-goal lead by halftime. The result immediately positions Morocco, runners-up in the last two editions, as a leading contender for their first WAFCON title.

Earlier on Saturday, July 25, Algeria launched their campaign with a 2-0 win over Senegal at the Rabat Olympic Stadium. Captain Marine Dafeur opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 42nd minute after a VAR-reviewed foul. Algeria sealed the victory late in the match when debutant Melissa Bethi scored in the 88th minute, capitalizing on a composed team performance.