Morocco wrapped up their preparations for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in emphatic fashion, defeating Cape Verde 5-0 on Tuesday in Casablanca, just days before the continental tournament kicks off. The Atlas Lionesses produced an impressive attacking display at Père Jégo Stadium, sending a strong message to their rivals ahead of the competition, which Morocco will host from 26 July to 16 August.
Experienced striker Ibtissam Jraidi opened the scoring in the 23rd minute before Sanaâ Mssoudy doubled the lead shortly before half-time. Mssoudy then took center stage after the break, netting twice in quick succession in the 62nd and 64th minutes to complete a hat-trick. Yasmin Mrabet rounded off the scoring six minutes from time as Morocco cruised to a convincing victory.
The result extends Morocco’s unbeaten run in 2026 and reinforces the confidence of Jorge Vilda’s squad ahead of what is expected to be one of the most competitive editions of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. Twice runners-up in the tournament, the Atlas Lionesses are determined to go one step further this year and lift the trophy in front of their home fans.
Morocco will open their Group A campaign against Kenya on 26 July in Rabat before taking on Algeria on 30 July in one of the standout fixtures of the group stage. They will conclude the first round against Senegal on 3 August.
With an experienced core, home advantage and growing confidence, Morocco enters WAFCON 2026 as one of the leading contenders for the continental title, while the tournament also offers African teams a crucial opportunity to secure qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
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