WAFCON 2026 Opening Results show Morocco and Algeria starting the tournament with convincing victories in their opening fixtures

Hosts Morocco made a powerful statement at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) on Sunday, 26 July 2026, defeating Kenya 4-0 in Rabat as the continental tournament got underway with impressive performances from the North African sides.

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The WAFCON 2026 Opening Results saw Morocco, who are aiming to challenge defending champions Nigeria for the title, deliver a dominant display in front of their home supporters.

Ibtissam Jraïdi was the standout performer for the Atlas Lionesses, scoring twice as Morocco produced an attacking masterclass. Sakina Ouzraoui Diki and Maryame Atiq also found the net as the hosts built a commanding 3-0 lead before half-time.

Jraïdi completed her brace after the break, sealing a comfortable victory and giving Morocco an ideal start to their campaign.

The result strengthened Morocco’s reputation as one of the teams expected to compete strongly for the trophy, especially after their impressive run at recent editions of the tournament.

In another Group A fixture, Algeria also began their campaign with a positive result after defeating Senegal 2-0.

Algeria captain Marine Dafeur opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 42nd minute after referee officials ruled that Korka Fall had fouled Amira Brahimi inside the box.

Debutant Melissa Bethi then secured all three points for Algeria with a late strike in the 88th minute, adding further excitement to their tournament debut.

The opening day results have already created early momentum for the North African teams, with Morocco and Algeria showing their ambitions in a competition that continues to grow in quality and global attention.

Morocco will face regional rivals Algeria in their next fixture on Thursday, while Senegal and Kenya will meet in a crucial encounter as both teams look to recover from opening defeats.

Group B action begins on Monday, with defending champions South Africa facing Tanzania before Ivory Coast take on Burkina Faso in another West African contest.

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The 2026 WAFCON is expected to feature intense competition among Africa’s leading women’s football nations, with teams competing not only for continental glory but also for greater recognition on the international stage.