Hosts Morocco take on Algeria in a North African derby on Thursday as both sides look to take top Group A at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
The match kicks off at 21:00 local time (20:00 GMT) at Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat. Fans catch the action live on Arriyadia TNT, SuperSport (DStv/GOtv) and Canal+ Afrique.
Both teams began their campaigns with convincing victories. Morocco beat Kenya 4-0 to move top of the group, while Algeria defeated Senegal 2-0.
A second win would put either side in a strong position to reach the quarter-finals and could prove decisive in the race to finish first in Group A.
Morocco head coach Jorge Vilda has a full squad available, with all 26 Atlas Lionesses fit for selection.
Forward Ibtissam Jraïdi is expected to lead the attack after scoring twice against Kenya. Sakina Ouzraoui and Meriem Atiq also found the net in the opening match.
Algeria have no reported injury concerns either.
Captain Marine Dafeur is set to lead the Fennecs, while forward Mélissa Bethi will hope to keep her place after being named Player of the Match against Senegal. Algeria also began the tournament with a clean sheet.
Morocco coach Jorge Vilda believes his side must quickly move on from their opening victory. “The first win gave us a good start, but that’s behind us.”
“What matters now is the performance we deliver on the pitch.”
He expects a difficult test against Algeria.
“They are a difficult team to break down.”
“They’ve shown progress offensively, so we’ll need to be at our best.”
Vilda believes tactics will play a major role.
“They have players capable of building from the back and progressing the ball, so the tactical aspect of the match will be very important.”
He also said his players are determined to continue their winning start.
“Our motivation is clear. We want to win, take the three points and move one step closer to qualification for the next round.”
“The ambition within the squad is very high. The players are eager to keep winning, and there is a strong family atmosphere and team spirit within the group.”
Looking back at Morocco’s opening match, Vilda added:
“When you start a tournament like this, it means you’ve had good preparation. I’m satisfied with what I saw from the team today.”
Match stats
- Morocco beat Kenya 4-0 in their opening Group A match.
- Algeria defeated Senegal 2-0 on Matchday One.
- Morocco and Algeria both have three points heading into the second round of fixtures.
