Football news

Algeria Achieves Historic First World Cup Qualification; Morocco Secures Return

August 9, 2026Pablo Navarro1 мин

In a landmark achievement, Algeria has qualified for the FIFA Women's World Cup, scheduled to be held in Brazil next summer. This historic feat was secured following their 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast in the African Women Cup of Nations (WAFCON) quarter-finals. Morocco also earned their spot in the World Cup by defeating South Africa with the same scoreline (2-1).

The Algerian team, managed by Farid Benstiti, demonstrated remarkable resilience. Despite falling behind to an early goal from Ines Konan, the momentum shifted after Ivory Coast's Safi N'Siri Ouedraogo was sent off. In the second half, Algeria staged a comeback, with Ines Khiri netting the equalizer before Amira Ould Braham scored the winning goal, capitalizing on a goalkeeping error.

This marks Algeria's first-ever advancement beyond the quarter-finals of the WAFCON and their inaugural qualification for the Women's World Cup, which will take place from June 24 to July 25. Four African teams automatically secure World Cup berths by reaching the WAFCON semi-finals, a distinction now held by Algeria.

Meanwhile, Morocco's victory over South Africa secures their second consecutive appearance at the World Cup. The Atlas Lionesses previously participated in the 2023 tournament, where they were eliminated in the Round of 16 by France.