Morocco took a major step towards the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations 2026 quarter-finals with a late 1-0 victory over Algeria, while Senegal reignited their campaign by beating Kenya by the same scoreline on Thursday.
The hosts, playing their second Group A match, were made to work hard in a tense North African derby before finally breaking through in the 84th minute. Mssoudy struck the decisive goal to secure a second straight win for Morocco and maintain their perfect start to the tournament.
The match had been finely balanced for long periods, with both sides largely cancelling each other out. Morocco, backed by a home crowd, pushed for the breakthrough but Algeria remained compact and disciplined, limiting clear chances for much of the contest. It was only in the closing stages that the Lionesses of the Atlas found a way through, Mssoudy providing the moment of quality that separated the two teams.
The result lifts Morocco to six points from two games, putting them clear at the top of Group A and within touching distance of the last eight. With two wins from two, the hosts now control their own destiny going into the final round of group fixtures.
Senegal back in contention
Earlier in the day, Senegal secured their first victory of the tournament with a 1-0 win over Kenya, a result that keeps their hopes of progression alive.
Seynabou Mbengue scored the only goal of the game in the 35th minute, giving Senegal a lead they managed to protect despite sustained second-half pressure from Kenya. Mbengue’s strike came during a more assertive spell from the West Africans, who took advantage of a defensive lapse to edge in front.
After the interval, Kenya responded strongly and dominated much of the play, forcing Senegal onto the back foot. The East Africans spent long spells camped in the opposition half, but were repeatedly frustrated in their attempts to find an equaliser.
Senegal were indebted to goalkeeper Adji Ndiaye, whose assured display underlined the resilience of Mame Moussa Cisse’s side. Ndiaye produced several important interventions and dealt confidently with Kenyan efforts from open play and set-pieces as Senegal held firm to see out the win.
Group A picture takes shape
With two rounds of matches completed in Group A, Morocco lead the standings on six points from two games and are closing in on a quarter-final place.
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 qualification. Their results on matchday three will determine who joins the hosts in the knockout phase.
Kenya, beaten for the second time in as many outings, are now mathematically out of contention and cannot progress from the group. Their elimination is confirmed with one group match still to play.
Thursday’s Group A results:
Morocco 1-0 Algeria
Senegal 1-0 Kenya
