Morocco began their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations 2026 campaign with a convincing 4-0 victory over Kenya on Sunday, July 26, in their opening Group A fixture. The hosts wasted no time asserting their dominance at the Prince Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat, producing an attacking display that confirmed their status as one of the tournament favourites.
Sanae Ouzraoui opened the scoring for Morocco in the 19th minute before Mariam Atiq doubled the lead nine minutes later. Ibtissam Jraidi then added a third goal in the 31st minute, giving the Atlas Lionesses a comfortable advantage at half-time. Jraidi completed her brace just two minutes after the second half began, scoring in the 47th minute to secure a dominant opening victory for Morocco.
Morocco and Algeria lead Group A
The result puts Morocco level with Algeria at the top of Group A. The Algerian team also started the competition with a win, defeating Senegal in their opening match. The two North African rivals will face each other on July 30 in a crucial group-stage encounter that could have a major impact on the race for first place.
For Morocco, the victory provides an ideal start to a tournament where the hosts are chasing their first-ever Women’s AFCON title. The Atlas Lionesses, runners-up in the previous two editions, are hoping to finally lift the continental trophy on home soil.
The 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations features 16 teams and runs from July 26 to August 16, with the competition also serving as a pathway towards qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
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