Algeria have secured a historic place at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup after overcoming Côte d’Ivoire 2-1 in the quarter-finals of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The Fennecs came from behind to claim victory on Saturday, with second-half goals from Ines Khiri and Amira Ould Braham overturning Ines Konan’s first-half opener for Côte d’Ivoire.
The result saw Algeria reach the WAFCON semi-finals for the first time, while also earning the country its maiden qualification for the Women’s World Cup.
Côte d’Ivoire made the stronger start and were rewarded in the 30th minute when Konan found the breakthrough, putting the Ivorians ahead after a lively opening spell.
Algeria’s task became more complicated before the interval when Côte d’Ivoire were reduced to 10 players following Habibou Ouedraogo’s dismissal.
With the numerical advantage, Algeria returned from the break with greater attacking intent.
Coach Farid Benstiti introduced Ikram Adjabi and Khiri, and the changes quickly paid dividends.
Khiri restored parity in the 58th minute, giving Algeria renewed belief as they pushed for a second goal.
Côte d’Ivoire were handed a golden opportunity to regain the lead shortly afterwards when they won a penalty.
However, Rebecca Elloh failed to convert from the spot in the 62nd minute.
Algeria immediately punished the miss.
Two minutes later, Marine Dafeur picked out Ould Braham, who kept her composure to fire Algeria ahead and complete the comeback.
Côte d’Ivoire continued to fight despite their numerical disadvantage, with coach Reynald Pedros making further changes in search of an equaliser.
Algeria, however, remained organised at the back and resisted the late pressure to preserve their advantage until the final whistle.
The victory represents a major milestone for Algerian women’s football.
The Fennecs had previously fallen at the quarter-final stage, including last year’s defeat by Ghana on penalties following a goalless draw.
Their progress to the last four has now ended that wait while simultaneously securing a place at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Under the expanded qualification format, the four WAFCON semi-finalists qualify directly for the World Cup.
The four quarter-final losers will enter an African play-off, with two teams advancing to the inter-confederation play-offs for another opportunity to qualify.
For Côte d’Ivoire, the defeat ends their hopes of reaching the semi-finals, although their return to the continental tournament has been impressive.
For Algeria, Saturday’s comeback will go down as a landmark moment, giving the North Africans their first WAFCON semi-final appearance and their first-ever Women’s World Cup qualification.
