Algeria Wins Bronze Against Morocco in WAFCON 2026

Algeria made history by winning the bronze medal at the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2026. They defeated the host nation Morocco 3-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw during regulation time in Rabat on Saturday.

This win is Algeria’s first podium finish in the competition's history. It wraps up a memorable tournament for them after their semi-final loss to Malawi.

Morocco started strong and almost scored in the 17th minute. Ibtissam Jraidi’s shot hit the crossbar, keeping the score level.

Nine minutes later, Morocco broke the deadlock. Kautar Azraf skillfully beat her defender and curled the ball into the far corner with her left foot, putting Morocco ahead.

Azraf nearly extended the lead with a volley soon after. But the ball went off course, and Algeria cleared the danger.

In the 63rd minute, Jraidi had another chance but could not connect properly with the ball after getting played through on goal.

Algeria came back from the break with more intensity. They started to apply pressure on the Moroccan defense.

Captain Marine Dafeur had a good chance in the 77th minute after receiving a perfect pass. But she could not get her shot on target.

Three minutes later, Lina Boussaha sent a warning with a powerful volley that just went over the crossbar.

The pressure finally paid off in the 83rd minute. Melissa Bethi made a great through ball to Boussaha. She kept her cool and beat the goalkeeper to level the match at 1-1.

Neither team could score again before the final whistle, leading to a penalty shootout to decide the winner.

Algeria held their nerves during the penalties, winning 3-2. Ines Belloumou scored the winning penalty, sealing a historic victory for Algeria.

This result gives Algeria their first WAFCON bronze medal and a spot on the podium. Morocco finishes in fourth place after a strong performance at home.

For Algeria, this victory is a great reward for their hard work. It marks an important milestone for the women’s national team.