Footballers Secure First Podium Finish at WAFCON 2026

The Algerian women's national football team achieved a significant milestone by securing the bronze medal at the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco. This historic third-place finish, earned after a dramatic 3-2 penalty shootout victory over host nation Morocco following a 1-1 draw, represents the team's best-ever performance at the continental tournament. The Greens, coached by Farid Benstiti, celebrated their first-ever podium finish in WAFCON history.

The third-place play-off saw Morocco take the lead in the 37th or 38th minute through Kautar Azraf. Despite the hosts having several opportunities, including a goal disallowed by VAR in the 47th minute and a missed penalty in the 97th minute by Nouhaila Benzina, Algeria maintained their resolve. Lina Boussaha delivered a crucial equalizer for Algeria in the 83rd minute, with an assist from Sofia Bekhaled, leveling the score at 1-1 and sending the match to penalties.

In the ensuing penalty shootout, Algeria demonstrated composure, ultimately prevailing 3-2. Goalkeeper Chloe N'Gazi made key saves, while Ines Belloumou converted the decisive penalty to seal the memorable victory for Algeria. This hard-fought triumph concluded Algeria's WAFCON 2026 campaign, which ran from July 26th to August 16th across Rabat and Casablanca, with a distinguished bronze medal.