Morocco Secures Victory Against Algeria in Women’s Africa Cup
The Moroccan national women’s football team achieved a decisive victory against their Algerian counterparts, winning 1-0 in the second match of Group A during the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations 2026, held at the Stade Moulay El Hassan in Rabat on Thursday evening. This victory not only showcases Morocco's prowess in women's football but also secures their place in the quarter-finals of the tournament.
At the start of the match, both teams exhibited cautious play, aiming to avoid conceding an early goal. However, the Atlas Lionesses soon took charge, establishing their style of play with structured attacks that exploited the flanks, thereby creating gaps in the Algerian defense. With players like Sakina Ouzraoui on the right wing and Sanaa Mssoudy on the left, Morocco attempted to pose a significant threat to Algerian goalkeeper Chloé N’Gazi. The midfield trio of Yasmine Mrabet, Kautar Azraf, and Elodie Nakkach focused on securing ball possession and quickly transitioning into offensive plays.
The first significant chance came in the 17th minute from a set piece taken by Kautar Azraf. Her cross found Nouhaila Benzina, whose header narrowly missed the target, signaling Morocco’s intention to dominate the match. As the game progressed, the Moroccan team maintained control, buoyed by their enthusiastic supporters, while Algeria struggled to find their footing. It wasn't until the 37th minute that Algeria managed to generate their first attempt at goal, a long-range shot that posed no real threat to Moroccan goalkeeper Khadija Er-Rmichi, leaving the first half scoreless.
Upon resuming play, the Lionesses intensified their efforts to breach the Algerian defense, utilizing the skills of Zineb Redouani and Ibtissam Jraidi. The introduction of captain Ghizlane Chebbak in the 70th minute provided a much-needed spark, as Morocco pressed forward in search of the elusive goal. Sanaa Mssoudy came close to scoring in the 75th minute with a header from a set piece executed by Chebbak, but it was saved by the Algerian keeper.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 84th minute when Sanaa Mssoudy found the net, sealing Morocco's victory and further solidifying their position in the tournament. Following this match, Morocco leads Group A with six points, followed by Algeria with three, Senegal also with three, and Kenya yet to score.
As reported by fr.hespress.com.
