WAFCON 2026: Morocco hope home advantage and recent success can end wait for continental crown

Morocco’s Atlas Lionesses head into the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations determined to turn years of steady progress into a first-ever continental title.

After finishing runners-up in each of the last two editions, the hosts are widely regarded as one of the favourites to lift the trophy as they look to make history in front of their home supporters.

The tournament offers another opportunity for Morocco to underline its growing influence in African women’s football following a remarkable rise over the past few years.

Years of investment paying dividends

The Atlas Lionesses have emerged as one of Africa’s leading women’s national teams thanks to significant improvements in their technical, tactical and physical development.

That progress has been driven by the Royal Moroccan Football Federation’s long-term commitment to developing women’s football, making it a central pillar of its national sporting strategy.

Morocco announced its arrival on the continental stage by reaching the final of the 2022 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations on home soil before repeating the achievement at the following tournament.

The team then achieved another historic milestone by reaching the last 16 of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in its first appearance at the tournament, becoming the first Arab nation to advance beyond the group stage of the competition.

Home support could prove decisive

Playing in front of passionate home crowds is expected to provide Morocco with another significant advantage.

The Atlas Lionesses enjoyed tremendous backing from supporters during their run to the 2022 final, and similar support is expected as they attempt to go one step further this time.

The squad also boasts a blend of experienced internationals and emerging young talent, with several players competing in both Morocco’s domestic league and top leagues abroad.

Strong domestic foundations

The continued growth of Morocco’s women’s league has also played an important role in strengthening the national team.

The success of clubs such as AS FAR, who won the CAF Women’s Champions League in 2022 and 2025, together with increased investment in youth development and football infrastructure, has expanded the country’s talent pool and raised the overall standard of the women’s game.

Eyes firmly on the trophy

Having established themselves among the continent’s elite, Morocco now have a clear objective: winning the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations for the first time.

Backed by home support and armed with the experience gained from recent continental and global tournaments, the Atlas Lionesses believe they have the quality to write another landmark chapter in Moroccan football history and cement the country’s status as one of the leading forces in African women’s football.