The Fennecs recovered from a semi-final defeat to Malawi to end their campaign on a high, collecting the bronze medal in Rabat.
Morocco Take the Lead
The hosts began brightly and came close to opening the scoring in the 17th minute when Ibtissam Jraidi’s first-time effort crashed against the crossbar.
Morocco eventually broke the deadlock in the 26th minute. Kautar Azraf showed excellent technique to create space before guiding a precise left-footed finish into the far corner to give the Atlas Lionesses the lead.
Azraf nearly doubled the advantage shortly afterwards with a volley that lacked the necessary direction, while Jraidi was denied again later when she failed to make clean contact after being played through on goal.
Algeria Fight Back
Algeria returned for the second half with greater organisation and began to create more consistent threats. Captain Marine Dafeur was unable to convert a promising opportunity in the 77th minute, and Lina Boussaha saw a well-struck volley sail just over the bar three minutes later.
The equaliser finally arrived in the 83rd minute. A superb through ball from Melissa Bethi released Boussaha, who composed herself to slot the ball past the goalkeeper and level the scores at 1-1.
Neither side could find a winner in the remaining time, forcing the contest into a penalty shootout.
Shootout Drama
In a tense exchange from the spot, Algeria held their nerve to prevail 3-2. Ines Belloumou converted the decisive penalty to seal a memorable victory and a historic podium finish for the North African side.
Historic Achievement
The result marks Algeria’s first podium finish in the history of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. Morocco, despite the disappointment of finishing fourth, can reflect on a strong tournament as hosts that also secured their place at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Algeria leave Morocco with bronze medals and growing confidence ahead of their first appearance at a Women’s World Cup.