WAFCON 2026: Morocco cruise past Kenya to launch title bid

Hosts Morocco made an emphatic start to their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign by defeating Kenya 4-0 in their Group A opener at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium on Sunday.

The Atlas Lionesses took control with three first-half goals before sealing victory shortly after the restart to claim all three points and underline their ambitions of lifting the continental title for the first time.

Sakina Ouzraoui Diki broke the deadlock in the 19th minute before Maryame Atiq doubled Morocco’s advantage nine minutes later.

The hosts tightened their grip on the contest when Jraidi struck in the 32nd minute, capping a devastating 13-minute spell that left Kenya with a mountain to climb.

Jraidi completed her brace just two minutes into the second half, putting the result beyond doubt and ensuring Jorge Vilda’s side opened the tournament with an impressive victory.

Perfect start for hosts

Morocco arrived at the tournament carrying high expectations after finishing runners-up in each of the previous two Women’s AFCON tournaments.

The North Africans were beaten by South Africa in the 2022 final before suffering heartbreak again in 2024, surrendering a two-goal lead to lose 3-2 to Nigeria in the championship match.

Their commanding display against Kenya offered an encouraging response as they look to finally secure the continental crown on home soil.

Attention turns to Algeria

The victory moves Morocco to the top of Group A with three points ahead of their second fixture against neighbours Algeria on Thursday, 30 July, again at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium.

They will conclude their group-stage campaign against Senegal on 3 August.

Kenya, meanwhile, face a crucial meeting with Senegal as they attempt to keep their hopes of reaching the knockout stage alive.

The Harambee Starlets are making only their second Women’s AFCON appearance after returning to the tournament for the first time in a decade.

Having lost all three group matches during their debut campaign in 2016, Sunday’s defeat means Kenya are still searching for their first point and first win in the competition.

For Morocco, however, the convincing victory provides the ideal platform as the Atlas Lionesses continue their quest to become Women’s AFCON champions for the first time.