Algeria Makes History by Reaching the WAFCON Semifinals and Qualifying for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup

Algeria produced one of the greatest moments in its football history by defeating Côte d'Ivoire 2-1 in the quarterfinals of the TotalEnergies CAF Women's Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2026, a victory that not only secured a place in the semifinals but also booked the nation's first-ever appearance at the FIFA Women's World Cup, set to be held in Brazil in 2027.

The Desert Foxes came from behind in a match that completely changed after the dismissal of Ivorian star N'Sira Ouedraogo, a turning point that ultimately shifted the momentum in Algeria's favor.

Côte d'Ivoire Controlled the Match, but the Red Card Changed Everything

The game began with both teams battling for possession, but Côte d'Ivoire gradually took control and pinned Algeria deep inside its own half.

The Ivorians thought they had opened the scoring in the 22nd minute with a brilliant finish, only for VAR to disallow the goal for offside.

Their pressure finally paid off in the 28th minute. Following a quick counterattack, Inès Konan found the back of the net to make it 1-0. The play was initially reviewed for a possible foul by the striker, but VAR overturned the on-field decision and awarded the goal. It was Konan's fourth goal of the tournament.

At that stage, Côte d'Ivoire looked in complete control, continuing to create chances while Algeria struggled to produce a single clear shot on target.

Everything changed in the 41st minute, however, when Ivorian star N'Sira Ouedraogo received a straight red card after catching the Algerian goalkeeper during a challenge for the ball. The dismissal forced the Elephants to play the entire second half with 10 players and completely altered the course of the match.

Algeria's Historic Comeback

With a numerical advantage, Algeria pushed forward from the start of the second half and began creating increasing pressure in the attacking third.

The equalizer arrived in the 58th minute through a spectacular long-range strike from Inès Khiri, whose powerful effort left the goalkeeper with no chance.

The drama, however, was far from over.

Just one minute later, Côte d'Ivoire was awarded a penalty, giving the Ivorians a golden opportunity to regain the lead. But Rebecca Elloh struck the post, allowing Algeria to stay alive.

That miss proved decisive.

In the 63rd minute, another stunning effort from outside the box, this time by Amira Braham, completed the comeback and gave Algeria a 2-1 advantage.

Holding the lead, the North Africans defended with discipline, closed down every available space, and made the most of their numerical superiority to withstand Côte d'Ivoire's late pressure.

The final whistle confirmed a historic victory for Algeria, which advanced to the WAFCON semifinals for the first time and secured qualification for the FIFA Women's World Cup Brazil 2027.

For Côte d'Ivoire, the defeat marked a disappointing end to an impressive tournament. However, the Elephants still have a chance to reach the World Cup, as they will compete in the playoff that offers a place in the intercontinental qualification tournament for Brazil 2027.