Hosts Morocco and Algeria enjoyed a night of resounding success as both secured their places in the semifinals of the Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) and clinched spots at the 2027 Women's World Cup in Brazil. This marks the first time two North African teams will appear together at the world's premier football event.
In the quarterfinal in Rabat, Morocco took a two-goal lead through strikes from Sakina Ouzraoui (31') and Hanane Ait El Haj from the penalty spot (51'). However, Thembi Kgatlana pulled one back for South Africa in the 67th minute, setting up a tense finish. Morocco's defense held firm to secure the 2-1 victory.
Meanwhile, in Casablanca, Algeria staged a remarkable comeback against Ivory Coast. Ines Konan gave the opponents an early lead in the 29th minute, but just before halftime, Ivory Coast were reduced to ten men when teenage defender N'Sira Ouedraogo was sent off for a foul on goalkeeper Chloe N'Gazi. Exploiting the numerical advantage, Algeria scored twice in six minutes through Ines Khiri and Amira Braham (54'–60') to seal a 2-1 win. Notably, Ivory Coast missed a chance to equalize between the goals when Rebecca Elloh saw her penalty saved.
In the semifinals next Wednesday, Morocco will face either defending champions Nigeria or Cameroon, while Algeria will meet Ghana or Malawi. In WAFCON history, no North African side has ever won the title. Nigeria dominates with ten titles, while other past champions include Equatorial Guinea (two) and South Africa (one).
