Algeria clinched a historic bronze medal at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations after defeating hosts Morocco 3-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw in regulation time in Rabat on Saturday.
The victory secured Algeria’s first-ever podium finish in the history of the competition and provided a memorable conclusion to their campaign following their semi-final defeat by Malawi.
Morocco made the brighter start and nearly opened the scoring in the 17th minute when Ibtissam Jraidi’s first-time effort struck the crossbar.
The hosts eventually took the lead nine minutes later through Kautar Azraf, who showed impressive skill to beat her marker before curling a left-footed effort into the far corner.
Azraf came close to adding a second shortly afterwards, but her volley bounced awkwardly and lost direction, allowing Algeria to clear the danger.
Morocco continued to threaten after the restart, with Jraidi handed another opportunity in the 63rd minute after being played through on goal, although she failed to make proper contact with her effort.
Algeria gradually took control of the contest and increased the pressure on the Moroccan defence.
Captain Marine Dafeur came close to finding an equaliser in the 77th minute but could not keep her effort on target, before Lina Boussaha sent another warning three minutes later with a volley that narrowly missed the crossbar.
The Algerians finally got their reward in the 83rd minute when Melissa Bethi picked out Boussaha with a precise through ball. Boussaha kept her composure to beat the goalkeeper and restore parity.
Neither team could find a winner before the final whistle, sending the match into a penalty shootout.
Algeria held their nerve from the spot to prevail 3-2, with Ines Belloumou converting the decisive penalty to seal the historic victory.
The result handed Algeria their maiden WAFCON bronze medal, while Morocco had to settle for fourth place despite an impressive campaign on home soil.
For Algeria, the achievement represents a major milestone for their women’s national team and a fitting reward for their resilience throughout the tournament.
