Morocco's women's national football team, the Atlas Lionesses, were eliminated in the group stage of the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), which concluded on August 17, 2026, in Morocco. The team, which had reached the final in the previous two editions, failed to advance past the first round, marking a significant setback.
According to match reports, the Lionesses drew their opening match against Zambia (1-1) and then suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Senegal, leaving them with only one point from two games. In their final group match, they needed a win against Tunisia but could only manage a 2-2 draw, resulting in their elimination.
The early exit is a major disappointment for Moroccan football, especially as the country was hosting the tournament. The team had been seen as a strong contender, having finished as runners-up in 2022 and 2024. Coach Reynald Pedros faced criticism for tactical decisions, and several players expressed frustration in post-match interviews.
The result also impacts Morocco's qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup, as only the top three teams from the WAFCON secure automatic berths. The Lionesses will now have to rely on a playoff route if they are to participate in the World Cup for the first time.
Despite the setback, the Moroccan federation has pledged to review the team's preparation and support, with an eye toward rebuilding for future competitions. Fans, while disappointed, have shown support for the players, acknowledging the competitive nature of African women's football.
