Atlas Lionesses keen to maintain winning start

July 30, 2026 12:02 am

Morocco and Algeria will put their perfect starts on the line when they meet in a fiercely anticipated North African derby in Group A of the TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations on Thursday, with top spot in the group potentially at stake.

The Atlas Lionesses emphatically opened their campaign with a 4-0 victory over Kenya, extending their unbeaten run to 10 matches across all competitions.

Jorge Vilda’s side, runners-up at the last two editions, have won four of their last five matches and will be eager to maintain their momentum as they continue their quest for a first continental title on home soil.

Algeria also began the tournament with a confidence-boosting 2-0 victory over Senegal, ending a mixed run of form before the finals.

Farid Benstiti’s side impressed with another clean sheet, continuing the defensive solidity that saw them concede no goals before their quarter-final exit at the previous edition. However, the Foxes face a stern test against a Moroccan side brimming with attacking quality.

Although Algeria have lost just one of their previous six meetings with Morocco, the hosts claimed a 2-0 friendly win in the sides’ most recent encounter in 2020 and will be favourites to continue their impressive form.

With a place in the knockout stage edging closer and 2027 Women’s World Cup qualification also on the line for the tournament’s top performers, both teams will be desperate to seize the initiative in one of the group stage’s standout fixtures.

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