Morocco and Kenya begin their 2026 WAFCON campaigns in a clash between the hosts’ major ambitions and the freshness of a team returning to the continental tournament after a decade away.

Don’t miss any of the 2026 WAFCON action on beIN SPORTS

The Women’s Africa Cup of Nations begins with one of the most anticipated matches of the opening round as Morocco hosts Kenya this Sunday at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat.

The Atlas Lionesses arrive with the support of the home crowd and after reaching the last two tournament finals, while the Harambee Starlets will look to showcase the growth of a young generation aiming to write a new chapter in Kenyan women’s soccer.

The match will be available LIVE from 4:00 PM ET / 1:00 PM PT on beIN SPORTS and beIN SPORTS Connect.

Morocco aims to turn hope into a title

After finishing as runners-up in the previous two editions, Morocco enters the 2026 WAFCON with the goal of winning the continental title for the first time.

Jorge Vilda’s team will once again play in front of its home supporters, a situation the Spanish coach sees as motivation rather than pressure. Over the past year, the coaching staff evaluated more than 50 players to build a squad that combines experience, youth, and talent.

History also favors the hosts. In 11 of the last 13 WAFCON editions, the host nation won its opening match, while home teams are unbeaten in nine consecutive tournament openers.

Kenya returns with a fearless generation

Kenya returns to the biggest competition in African women’s soccer after a ten-year absence, determined to move on from its 2016 campaign, when it lost all three matches.

Under Beldine Odemba, the Harambee Starlets arrive strengthened by their performances during qualifying, where they secured important victories over Tunisia and Gambia.

A debut with very different objectives

Morocco will look to impose its experience, individual quality, and home support from the opening minute, while Kenya will aim to compete without fear and make the most of the energy of its young players.

The match will also mark the first time the Harambee Starlets face the host nation at a WAFCON.

Don’t miss the match between Morocco and Kenya, as well as all the 2026 WAFCON action, LIVE on beIN SPORTS and beIN SPORTS Connect.