WAFCON 2026: Morocco, Algeria reach Semi-Finals, secure World Cup qualification
Morocco and Algeria have made history at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after booking their places in the semi-finals and securing qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
The two North African nations took contrasting routes to the last four on Saturday, August 8, with hosts Morocco defeating defending champions South Africa 2-1 in Rabat, while Algeria came from behind to beat Côte d’Ivoire by the same scoreline in Casablanca.
The results represent a major milestone for both teams, particularly Algeria, who have reached the WAFCON semi-finals for the first time in their history.
Morocco edge South Africa to reach WAFCON semi-finals
Morocco continued their impressive run on home soil with a 2-1 victory over South Africa. The hosts started strongly and took the lead after 31 minutes when Sakina Ouzraoui scored her second goal of the tournament.
Morocco then doubled their advantage shortly after half-time. Hanane Ait El Haj converted from the penalty spot six minutes into the second half to put the hosts 2-0 ahead.
South Africa refused to surrender and reduced the deficit through star forward Thembi Kgatlana in the 67th minute. The late goal set up a tense final period, but Morocco's defence held firm to secure a place in the semi-finals.
The victory also keeps Morocco's hopes of winning their first WAFCON title alive after they finished runners-up to South Africa in the previous edition.
Algeria make history against Côte d’Ivoire
Algeria produced an even more dramatic comeback against Côte d’Ivoire to reach the semi-finals for the first time. The Ivorians appeared to have the advantage after Ines Konan opened the scoring in the 29th minute.
However, the game changed significantly before half-time when Côte d’Ivoire were reduced to 10 players following the dismissal of 18-year-old N'Sira Ouedraogo.
Algeria took advantage of their numerical superiority after the break. Substitute Ines Khiri equalised before Amira Braham completed the turnaround six minutes later, giving Algeria a 2-1 lead.
Côte d’Ivoire were handed an opportunity to level from the penalty spot, but Rebecca Elloh struck the post. Algeria subsequently controlled much of the second half and created further opportunities as they secured a historic semi-final place.
Morocco and Algeria qualify for the 2027 Women's World Cup
Reaching the WAFCON semi-finals has brought another major reward for both teams. Morocco and Algeria have secured qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil, adding an important achievement to their runs at the continental tournament.
For Algeria, the qualification is particularly significant given their historic first appearance in the WAFCON semi-finals. Morocco, meanwhile, will have the opportunity to compete at the global tournament after another deep run on home soil.
The progress of both nations also highlights the increasing competitiveness of women's football in North Africa.
Who will Morocco and Algeria face in the semi-finals?
Morocco will face the winner of the quarter-final between Nigeria and Cameroon in the semi-finals. Algeria will meet the winner of the other quarter-final between Ghana and Malawi.
The semi-final fixtures are scheduled for Wednesday, August 12, 2026. Morocco will enter the final four with home advantage and the backing of their supporters, while Algeria will be looking to continue their historic campaign after eliminating Côte d’Ivoire.
Morocco chasing a first WAFCON title
Morocco now have an opportunity to go one step further than they did in the previous tournament. The Atlas Lionesses reached the final four years ago before eventually finishing as runners-up to South Africa.
A second consecutive deep run gives the hosts another chance to challenge for the biggest prize in African women's football.
However, the remaining competition includes several experienced teams, meaning Morocco will need to maintain their defensive discipline and attacking efficiency if they are to reach the final.
Algeria's historic WAFCON run
For Algeria, the 2026 tournament has already become a landmark campaign. Their victory over Côte d’Ivoire secured their first-ever appearance in the WAFCON semi-finals.
The comeback also demonstrated the team's ability to respond under pressure after falling behind in the first half.
With a place at the 2027 Women's World Cup already secured, Algeria can now focus on extending their remarkable run in Morocco.
North Africa making history at WAFCON 2026
Morocco and Algeria's progress represents a significant moment for North African women's football.
No North African nation has previously won the Women's Africa Cup of Nations. The tournament has historically been dominated by Nigeria, who have won the competition 10 times.
South Africa and Equatorial Guinea are the other nations to have lifted the title, with South Africa winning the most recent edition before the 2026 tournament.
Morocco and Algeria now have an opportunity to change that history.
With both teams through to the semi-finals, one of them could potentially reach the WAFCON final and move closer to becoming the first North African champion.
What happens next at WAFCON 2026?
The focus now shifts to the remaining quarter-final matches before the semi-final lineup is completed. Morocco will await the winner between Nigeria and Cameroon, while Algeria will face either Ghana or Malawi.
With World Cup qualification already secured, the four remaining semi-finalists will be competing for a place in the WAFCON final and a chance to lift the continental trophy.
For Morocco, the target is a first African title on home soil. For Algeria, the objective is to continue a historic campaign that has already taken them further than ever before.
The 2026 WAFCON semi-finals now promise to deliver another major chapter in African women's football.
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