Algeria Stages a Comeback Against Côte d'Ivoire
The quarter-finals of the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) kicked off with an exhilarating match between Algeria and Côte d'Ivoire at the Moulay Rachid Stadium in Casablanca. The Algerian national team showcased remarkable resilience, turning the tide in the second half after initially trailing. Despite being behind, Algeria managed to secure a 2-1 victory, thanks in part to two critical errors by Ivorian goalkeeper Diakité Aramatou. The match began on a sour note for Algeria when Inès Konan of Côte d'Ivoire netted the first goal in the 30th minute, putting the Elephantes ahead. Their dominance, however, was short-lived as they faced a significant disadvantage after Safi Ouédraogo received a red card, leaving the team with only ten players.
With the odds stacked against them, the Ivorian squad struggled to maintain their lead and succumbed to pressure as Algeria equalized in the 58th minute through a well-placed shot by Inès Khiri. The game reached a pivotal moment shortly after, when a penalty awarded to Côte d'Ivoire was thwarted by a spectacular save from Algerian goalkeeper Chloé N'gazi in the 60th minute. Just three minutes later, Algeria seized the opportunity to take the lead with a goal from Amira Ould Braham. The Greens held on to their advantage despite a valiant effort from the Ivorians in the dying moments of the match. Looking ahead, Algeria is set to compete in the semi-finals against the winner of the Malawi versus Ghana match on August 12 at 5 PM GMT, hosted at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat.
Morocco Dominates South Africa to Advance
In another quarter-final clash at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat, Morocco faced off against South Africa, and further solidified their status as a formidable contender in the tournament. The Lionesses of the Atlas displayed exceptional control and poise throughout the match, ultimately defeating the Banyana Banyana with a score of 2-1. Morocco's performance was characterized by their tactical prowess and dominance in all facets of play, as they managed to secure two goals—one from Ouzraoui in the 31st minute and another from Haj via a penalty kick in the 51st minute. Although South Africa found a glimmer of hope with a goal from Kgatlana in the 67th minute, it proved insufficient to turn the tide in their favor.
Despite a spirited attempt to equalize, the South African team was unable to penetrate Morocco's defense again, marking the end of their journey in this year’s tournament. As Morocco advances to the semi-finals, they will face the winner of the highly anticipated match between Cameroon and defending champions Nigeria. This crucial encounter is scheduled for August 12 at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat, where both teams will vie for a coveted spot in the final of the 2026 Women's AFCON.
As reported by sportnewsafrica.com.
