Algeria Claims Bronze at WAFCON 2026 After Penalty Win

Algeria secured a historic bronze medal at the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2026 by defeating the host nation Morocco 3-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in regulation time on Saturday in Rabat. This victory represents Algeria’s first-ever podium finish in the tournament's history, concluding their campaign on a high note following a semi-final defeat to Malawi.

Morocco started the match with intensity, nearly scoring in the 17th minute when Ibtissam Jraidi’s shot hit the crossbar. They took the lead in the 26th minute through Kautar Azraf, who curled the ball into the far corner.

Algeria responded with increased pressure in the second half, equalizing in the 83rd minute when Melissa Bethi assisted Lina Boussaha. With neither team scoring in regulation time, the match proceeded to penalties, where Algeria triumphed 3-2, with Ines Belloumou converting the decisive penalty.

Morocco finished fourth after a commendable performance on home soil.