In a tense and historic showdown, Algeria secured its first-ever bronze medal at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. The Fennecs triumphed over host nation Morocco in a dramatic 3-2 penalty shootout, following a 1-1 deadlock that lasted through the end of regulation time. This result serves as a significant milestone for Algeria, offering a hard-fought redemption following their difficult semi-final exit against Malawi.
The atmosphere in the stadium was electric as the Moroccan side commanded the early exchanges. They nearly broke through in the 17th minute when Ibtissam Jraidi sent a powerful strike against the crossbar. The breakthrough eventually arrived in the 26th minute, when Kautar Azraf demonstrated exceptional footwork to beat her defender and curl a precise left-footed shot into the far corner of the net. Morocco continued to look threatening, with Azraf nearly finding a second goal shortly after, though an unpredictable bounce on the pitch allowed the Algerian defense to scramble and clear the danger.
As the second half unfolded, Morocco struggled to capitalize on their dominance. Missed opportunities proved to be their undoing, most notably in the 63rd minute when Jraidi failed to convert a clear chance that would have put the game out of reach. Frustration mounted for the hosts when a goal from Maryam Atiq was ruled out following a VAR check, keeping Algeria firmly in the contest.
Algeria capitalized on their lifeline, shifting the momentum with a more tactical and aggressive approach. Their persistence was rewarded in the 83rd minute. Melissa Bethi threaded a delicate through-ball that bypassed the Moroccan defense, allowing Lina Boussaha to slot the ball home for a crucial equalizer. The drama hit a fever pitch deep into stoppage time when Morocco was handed a golden opportunity to win from the penalty spot. However, Nouhaila Benzina’s effort agonizingly struck the post, forcing the match into a nerve-wracking shootout.
Under the spotlight of the shootout, Algerian goalkeeper Chloé N’Gazi delivered a masterclass performance, denying two Moroccan spot-kicks. While Algeria also missed two attempts, Ines Belloumou held her nerve to convert the decisive penalty. The contest ended when Jraidi struck the woodwork on Morocco’s final attempt, cementing a historic podium finish for the visitors. Zoyols News reports that despite the disappointment for the host nation, both teams leave the tournament with their heads held high, as both North African powerhouses have successfully qualified for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
