Morocco leave it late against Algeria as Senegal revive Women’s Africa Cup of Nations hopes

Morocco moved to the brink of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations 2026 quarter-finals with a late 1-0 victory over Algeria, while Senegal reignited their campaign by edging out Kenya on Thursday in Group A.

The tournament hosts made it two wins from two in the Maghreb derby, but were forced to wait until the 84th minute before finally breaking Algeria’s resistance. Mssoudy struck the decisive goal, settling a contest that had been finely balanced for long spells.

Algeria matched Morocco for much of the game, keeping the scoreline level deep into the second half. However, the pressure eventually told as the Lionnes de l’Atlas found the breakthrough in the closing stages to maintain their perfect start.

The result lifts Morocco to six points from their first two matches, putting them in sole control at the top of Group A and leaving them on the verge of securing a place in the last eight. With a maximum tally so far, they are now strongly positioned ahead of the final round of group fixtures.

Senegal back in contention

Earlier in the day, Senegal claimed their first win of the tournament with a 1-0 success over Kenya, matching the scoreline from the group’s other fixture.

Seynabou Mbengue provided the only goal of the game in the 35th minute, giving Senegal a lead they would have to work hard to protect. Her strike ultimately proved enough to secure three crucial points and keep their hopes of progression alive.

Kenya responded strongly after the interval and dominated much of the second half, putting the Senegal defence under sustained pressure. The Kenyanes pushed forward in search of an equaliser, but could not find a way through.

Senegal were indebted to goalkeeper Adji Ndiaye, whose assured display underlined the team’s resilience. She made a series of important interventions to preserve the clean sheet and ensure Mbengue’s first-half goal remained decisive.

Group A picture takes shape

The day’s results leave Morocco clear at the top of Group A on six points, with qualification for the quarter-finals now within reach going into the final group match.

Senegal’s victory moves them level with Algeria on three points, setting up a decisive final round in which both sides will be playing for a spot in the knockout phase.

Kenya, beaten for the second time in as many outings, are mathematically out of contention for the quarter-finals and will exit the competition at the group stage.

Thursday’s scores in Group A: Morocco 1-0 Algeria Senegal 1-0 Kenya