Thrilling Showdowns Ahead in Morocco
After an exhilarating group stage filled with intensity and unexpected twists, the eight teams competing in the quarterfinals of the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations 2026 in Morocco have been determined. Among the standout stories, Malawi has made history by qualifying for the knockout stage for the first time, showcasing the growth of women's football in the region. Meanwhile, traditional powerhouses Nigeria and South Africa secured their spots in the quarterfinals following fiercely contested matches.
The tournament now transitions to the knockout phase, with the quarterfinal matches scheduled for August 8 and 9, where eight nations will vie for a place in the semifinals and a direct qualification for the FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil in 2027. The action kicks off on Saturday, August 8, at the Stade Moulay Rachid in Casablanca, featuring a matchup between Côte d'Ivoire and Algeria at 18:00 local time (17:00 GMT). Côte d'Ivoire, having displayed consistent form throughout the group stage, aims to continue their journey against an ambitious Algerian side looking to reach the semifinals for the first time in their history.
Later that evening, the prestigious clash between Morocco and South Africa will take place at the Stade Moulay Hassan in Rabat, starting at 21:00 local time (20:00 GMT). This match serves as a rematch of the 2022 final, where South Africa triumphed with a 2-1 victory.
On Sunday, August 9, the Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca will host one of the quarterfinal highlights as Cameroon takes on ten-time African champions Nigeria. The Indomitable Lionesses, who remain unbeaten in the group stage, will face the Super Falcons in what promises to be a thrilling encounter. Finally, the last quarterfinal will be held at the Stade Al Madina in Rabat, where Malawi will continue their impressive run against the Black Queens of Ghana. This marks Malawi's debut in the knockout rounds, and they will strive to extend their remarkable journey.
The four victorious teams from these matches will advance to the semifinals of the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations 2026, bringing them one step closer to claiming the most prestigious title in African women’s football.
Quarterfinal Schedule
Saturday, August 8
Côte d'Ivoire vs. Algeria | 17:00 GMT | Stade Moulay Rachid, Casablanca
Morocco vs. South Africa | 20:00 GMT | Stade Moulay Hassan, Rabat
Sunday, August 9
Cameroon vs. Nigeria | 17:00 GMT | Stade Larbi Zaouli, Casablanca
Malawi vs. Ghana | 20:00 GMT | Stade Al Madina, Rabat
For more information on the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations 2026, visit cafonline.com.
As reported by cafonline.com.