National Team Clinches First Africa Cup Medal

The Algerian women's national football team achieved a historic milestone on August 15, 2026, securing the bronze medal at the Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON 2026). In a dramatic third-place playoff held in Rabat, the Algerian squad defeated regional rivals Morocco, marking the nation's first-ever medal in the tournament's history. This significant accomplishment underscores the rapid and consistent progress of Algerian women's football.

The match saw an initial lead for the host nation, with Kautar Azraf opening the scoring for Morocco in the 37th minute. Despite the early setback, the Algerian team demonstrated resilience and determination. Their persistence paid off late in the second half when Lina Boussaha found the equalizer in the 83rd minute, bringing the score to 1-1. The tension escalated in added time as Morocco was awarded a penalty, but Benzina's attempt struck the right post of Algerian goalkeeper Chloé N’Gazi, sending the game directly to a shootout.

The subsequent penalty shootout proved to be a nail-biting affair. While Algeria missed its second attempt, Morocco struggled to convert, missing three consecutive penalties. This opened the door for Algeria to claim victory. Inès Belloumou stepped up to score the decisive penalty, sealing a 3-2 shootout win for the Algerian side. Scenes of jubilation erupted as the team celebrated their hard-fought bronze medal, a testament to their unwavering spirit throughout the competition.

This triumph not only brings a prestigious medal home but also highlights the growing strength and competitive spirit of Algerian athletes on the continental stage. The victory against Morocco, achieved on their home ground, further amplifies the significance of this achievement for the Algerian national team and its supporters, promising a bright future for women's football in the country.