Historic Triumphs for Morocco and Algeria

In a remarkable display of skill and determination, both Morocco and Algeria emerged victorious in the quarter-finals of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), held on Saturday in Johannesburg. Their success not only propelled them into the semifinals of the tournament but also secured their places at the Women’s World Cup scheduled to take place in Brazil next year. Morocco's journey to victory was marked by a strong start, establishing a two-goal lead against South Africa, ultimately winning the match 2-1. On the other hand, Algeria showcased resilience by overcoming a deficit to defeat Ivory Coast with the same scoreline. The achievement of reaching the semifinals guarantees the four WAFCON semifinalists automatic qualification for the World Cup, which is set to run from June 24 to July 25, 2027.

For Algeria, this victory represents a historic milestone, marking their first-ever appearance at the women’s World Cup. Meanwhile, Morocco, which previously reached the round of 16 in 2023, will return to the global stage, aiming for further success.

Match Highlights: Morocco vs. South Africa and Algeria vs. Ivory Coast

In the match between Morocco and South Africa, Morocco took an early lead when Sakina Ouzraoui volleyed in her second goal of the tournament in the 31st minute. The advantage was extended shortly after halftime when Hanane Ait El Hajj converted a penalty awarded for a foul on Ghizlane Chebbak. South Africa, the defending WAFCON champions, fought back with a goal from Thembi Kgatlana in the 67th minute, following a lengthy video review that overturned an initial offside call. Despite this setback, Morocco held firm and secured their place in the semifinals, where they will now face the winner of the quarter-final match between Nigeria and Cameroon.

In a contrasting match, Algeria found themselves trailing after Ines Konan scored for Ivory Coast in the 29th minute. However, the dynamics shifted dramatically when 18-year-old N’Sira Ouedraogo received a red card just before halftime, leaving Ivory Coast with ten players. Taking advantage of the numerical disparity, Algeria turned the tables in the second half, with substitute Ines Khiri leveling the score before Amira Ould Braham clinched the comeback with a second goal. Ivory Coast's missed penalty opportunity, which struck the post while the score was tied, ultimately sealed their fate. With this win, Algeria not only advanced to the semifinals but also made history by qualifying for the Women’s World Cup. They will face the winner of the Ghana and Malawi match in the next round.

Although South Africa and Ivory Coast faced disappointment in their quarter-final matches, they still have a pathway to the World Cup. These two teams will compete for spots in the inter-confederation playoff tournament, which offers three additional berths for Africa in the World Cup. South Africa will meet the losing team from the Nigeria-Cameroon match, while Ivory Coast will challenge the loser of the Ghana-Malawi encounter. As the tournament progresses, both Morocco and Algeria will strive to make history, as no north African nation has yet won the WAFCON, a title that has predominantly been claimed by Nigeria, which boasts a record ten championships, along with victories from Equatorial Guinea and South Africa.

As reported by arabnews.pk.