WAFCON: Algeria beat Morocco to claim bronze medal

Algeria clinched a historic bronze medal at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations after a 3‑2 penalty shootout win over Morocco, following a 1‑1 draw in the third‑place play‑off, SABC Sport reports. The decisive moment arrived in the 83rd minute when Lina Boussaha equalised, sending the match to penalties.

Morocco’s early advantage

Morocco appeared on course for victory after Kautar Azraf broke the deadlock, giving the hosts a 1‑0 advantage before the interval.

Algeria’s comeback and shootout

The Atlas Lionesses then thought they had extended their lead after the restart, but Maryam Atiq’s effort was disallowed, leaving the score unchanged.

Algeria continued to press for a way back into the contest and eventually found their reward seven minutes from time. Lina Boussaha struck in the 83rd minute to level the score and force the match into a shootout.

Neither side could find another goal during the remainder of normal time, leaving the bronze medal to be decided from 12 yards. Algeria beat Morocco 3‑2 in the penalty shootout, securing third place and leaving Morocco to settle for fourth.

The achievement caps a landmark tournament for Farid Benstiti’s side. Algeria reached the semi‑finals for the first time in their WAFCON history, surpassing any previous performance.

The run to the last four also secured Algeria’s maiden qualification for the FIFA Women’s World Cup, which will be staged in Brazil in 2027.