Morocco edge Algeria late on to maintain perfect start at Women’s AFCON 2026 qualifying

Morocco needed an 84th-minute winner from Mssoudy to defeat Algeria 1-0 in a fiercely contested derby and move clear at the top of Group A in qualifying for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.

Playing in front of their home crowd at Stade Moulay El Hassan, the Lionnes de l’Atlas eventually broke down an Algeria side that had defended resolutely for almost the entire match, securing a second victory from two group fixtures.

The game quickly developed into an intense, physical and tactical battle, with both teams cancelling each other out for long spells. Morocco and Algeria each looked organised and disciplined from the outset, leaving few spaces in behind and limiting clear chances during the first half.

That control from both defences meant the sides went in at half-time level at 0-0, with neither attack able to find the precision needed in the final third.

Late breakthrough after sustained pressure

After the interval, Morocco increased their tempo and attacking intent, pushing higher up the pitch and committing more players forward. The hosts gradually took control of possession and territory, particularly as the second half wore on.

In the final quarter of an hour, the Moroccan pressure grew more relentless, forcing Algeria deeper and testing a back line that had been almost faultless up to that point. The visitors were repeatedly called upon to clear their lines and defend crosses and through balls as Morocco searched for a decisive moment.

That breakthrough finally arrived six minutes from time. An Algerian clearance was not fully dealt with by the defence, and the loose ball created uncertainty at the back. Mssoudy reacted quickest, drifting in behind the defensive line to find herself one-on-one with the goalkeeper before calmly placing her shot into the net to settle the match.

Morocco take control of Group A

Algeria were unable to respond in the closing minutes, and the final whistle confirmed a narrow but deserved victory for the hosts, whose sustained second-half pressure ultimately told.

The result gives Morocco a flawless record of two wins from two matches in Group A, underlining their status as group favourites and allowing them to take sole possession of top spot.

Backed by their home support, the Lionnes de l’Atlas have now put themselves in a strong position in the race for qualification, while Algeria are left to reflect on a disciplined defensive display that was undone only by a late lapse under constant pressure.