Algeria, Morocco qualify for 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup

Algeria and Morocco have made history by becoming the first African nations to secure spots in the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup, which will be held in Brazil. Their qualification came through strong performances in the Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) quarter-finals, guaranteeing them automatic berths by reaching the tournament's semi-finals.

Algeria achieved a dramatic comeback against Côte d'Ivoire, winning 2-1. After falling behind in the first half, a red card for the Ivorian side shifted the momentum. Algeria capitalized after the break, with Ines Khiri equalizing in the 58th minute before Amira Braham sealed the victory with a long-range strike. This win sends the Fennecs to their first-ever Women's World Cup finals.

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The Fennecs were handed a major boost before half-time when Côte d'Ivoire were reduced to 10 players following N’Sira Ouedraogo’s dismissal for a high boot on goalkeeper Chloe N’Gazi.

Morocco also secured their second successive World Cup appearance by defeating defending champions South Africa, also by a 2-1 scoreline. Sakina Ouzraoui opened the scoring for the Atlas Lionesses, and Hanane Ait El Haj extended their lead from the penalty spot. Despite a late goal from South Africa's Thembi Kgatlana, Morocco held on to secure their place in Brazil 2027.

Morocco notably reached the knockout stages of the 2023 Women's World Cup, becoming the first Arab nation to do so. Two more African teams will join Algeria and Morocco at the 2027 tournament, with the winners of the remaining WAFCON quarter-finals also securing automatic qualification. Côte d'Ivoire and South Africa still have a chance to qualify through the FIFA Play-Off Tournament.

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Morocco made history at the 2023 Women’s World Cup by becoming the first Arab nation to reach the knockout stages of the competition.