Hosts Morocco and Algeria secured qualification for the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) quarter-finals following contrasting performances on the final matchday of Group A.

Morocco were forced to settle for a dramatic 0-0 draw against Senegal in Rabat, while Algeria comfortably defeated Kenya 2-0 to finish the group stage on a high.

The results ended Senegal's campaign and confirmed Kenya's exit without a point or a goal, while attention now shifts to the knockout rounds and the battle for the remaining qualification places.

Teenage Goalkeeper Denies Morocco in Rabat

Morocco dominated much of their encounter with Senegal but were repeatedly frustrated by teenage goalkeeper Adji Ndiaye, who produced one of the performances of the tournament.

The 19-year-old made seven crucial saves, including an extraordinary double penalty stop against Yasmin Mrabet, to keep the Atlas Lionesses scoreless.

The defining moment arrived midway through the second half when Morocco were awarded a penalty after Sakina Ouzraoui Diki was brought down inside the area.

Mrabet's initial effort was saved before VAR ordered the kick to be retaken because Ndiaye had moved off her line. However, the Valencia midfielder was required to retake the penalty herself after referee Shamirah Nabadda rejected Morocco's attempt to switch takers.

Ndiaye once again guessed correctly to preserve Senegal's hopes.

Morocco continued to press late in the match, but the Senegal goalkeeper stood firm to ensure the contest ended without goals.

Algeria Cruise Into Knockout Stage

While Morocco were being frustrated in Rabat, Algeria wasted little time taking control against Kenya.

Early goals from Marine Dafeur and Lynda Bendris inside the opening 23 minutes secured a comfortable 2-0 victory and guaranteed the Fennecs a place in the quarter-finals.

The result also marked another disappointing outing for Kenya, who exited the tournament having failed to score across their three group matches.

Algeria, who reached the knockout rounds for the first time at the previous edition, will now look to advance even further as confidence continues to grow within the squad.

Morocco Set Up Quarter-Final Clash

Despite dropping points for the first time in the tournament, Morocco finished the group strongly enough to qualify for the last eight.

The tournament hosts will now face the Group B runners-up in Rabat, while Algeria take on the Group B winners in Casablanca.

Both teams remain firmly in contention for a place in the semi-finals—and with it, a step closer to continental glory.

Ramalepe Relishing New Attacking Role for South Africa

Elsewhere at the tournament, South Africa continue preparations for a crucial Group B showdown against Burkina Faso, with experienced winger Lebohang Ramalepe embracing her evolving role under coach Desiree Ellis.

Traditionally deployed as a right-back throughout much of her career, the Mamelodi Sundowns star has become an increasingly influential attacking option after being converted into a winger.

Ramalepe's introduction from the bench helped spark Banyana Banyana's remarkable comeback from two goals down to draw 2-2 with Ivory Coast, as goals from Thembi Kgatlana and Hildah Magaia rescued a valuable point.

The 34-year-old credited Ellis for giving her renewed confidence in a more advanced position.

"Coach Ellis changing my position from full-back to winger was something completely new," Ramalepe said.

"I have the pace to help the team attack, but I also know when to recover and defend. It's about finding the right balance."

Sundowns Professionalism Raising Women's Football Standards

Ramalepe also praised Mamelodi Sundowns for helping transform women's football in South Africa.

She highlighted the importance of professional contracts, explaining that many talented players are still forced to choose regular employment over football because of financial limitations.

According to the veteran international, Sundowns' investment has created an environment where players can focus entirely on training and competing, providing a model she hopes other clubs will eventually follow.

South Africa Face Must-Win Encounter

Defending champions South Africa now enter the final round of Group B knowing victory over Burkina Faso is essential to keep their title defence alive.

However, even three points may not be enough.

Banyana Banyana's qualification hopes also depend on the outcome of the other group fixture between Ivory Coast and Tanzania.

A victory for Ivory Coast, combined with a South African win, would send Ellis' side into the quarter-finals. Should Tanzania also win, qualification could come down to goal difference.

With a place in the knockout stages and a pathway toward automatic qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup still on the line, Tuesday's fixtures promise high drama.

Key Takeaways

• Morocco reached the WAFCON 2026 quarter-finals after drawing 0-0 with Senegal.
• Teenage goalkeeper Adji Ndiaye starred with two penalty saves and seven stops.
• Algeria defeated Kenya 2-0 to qualify for the knockout stage.
• Kenya exited the tournament without scoring a goal.
• South Africa must beat Burkina Faso and rely on other results to reach the quarter-finals.
• Lebohang Ramalepe continues to impress after her successful switch from full-back to winger.

FAQ

Which teams qualified from Group A?

Morocco and Algeria progressed to the WAFCON 2026 quarter-finals.

Who was the standout player in Morocco vs Senegal?

Senegal goalkeeper Adji Ndiaye earned widespread praise after making seven saves, including two penalty stops.

Can South Africa still qualify?

Yes. Banyana Banyana must defeat Burkina Faso and rely on favourable results in the Ivory Coast vs Tanzania match.

SportsLigue