Algeria have secured a historic place in the semi-finals of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations after coming from behind to defeat 10-player Ivory Coast 2-1 in a dramatic quarter-final on Saturday.
The victory also earned Algeria qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Ivory Coast started strongly in Casablanca and took the lead in the 29th minute through Inès Konan, who reacted quickly inside the box after the Algerian defence came under pressure.
The Elephants, however, were dealt a major blow shortly before half-time when Nsira Ouedraogo was shown a red card in the 42nd minute.
Despite being reduced to 10 players, Ivory Coast maintained their advantage and went into the break with a 1-0 lead.
Algeria responded strongly after the restart, with coach Farid Benstiti bringing on Inès Khiri at half-time.
The substitute made an immediate impact, scoring in the 59th minute to restore parity and bring Algeria back into the contest.
Ivory Coast were then handed a chance to retake the lead after being awarded a penalty. However, Rebecca Elloh missed from the spot, with her effort hitting the post as Algerian goalkeeper Chloé N’Gazi guessed correctly.
Algeria capitalised on the missed opportunity just five minutes later.
Marine Dafeur created the opening for Amira Ould Braham, who struck from the edge of the box in the 64th minute to complete Algeria’s comeback and put them 2-1 ahead.
Ivory Coast pushed hard for an equaliser in the closing stages, but Algeria’s defence held firm, with N’Gazi making crucial interventions to preserve the lead.
The Elephants were unable to find a second goal as Algeria held on to secure a historic victory.
The result sees Algeria reach the WAFCON semi-finals for the first time in the country’s history. Their progress into the last four also guarantees qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
It is a major milestone for Algerian women’s football, with the team securing its maiden WAFCON semi-final appearance and first-ever Women’s World Cup qualification in the same campaign.
Algeria will face the winner of the quarter-final between Malawi and Ghana in the semi-finals as they continue their pursuit of a place in the WAFCON final.