Following a gripping contest that hung in the balance until the final moments, Algeria overcame Morocco in a dramatic penalty shootout (1-1, 3-2 on pens) to secure third place at AFCON 2026. This historic podium finish for the Greens came despite facing yet another questionable penalty awarded to Morocco in the dying seconds.
Algeria has captured its medal. For the first time in their history, the women’s national team stands on the continental podium. Capping an already landmark campaign, Farid Benstiti’s squad outlasted Morocco in an exceptionally tense third-place playoff that culminated in a victorious 3-2 shootout.
This bronze medal crowns a stellar tournament for the Algerians, who reached the AFCON semifinals for the first time before booking their spot at the 2027 World Cup. Facing Morocco, however, required one final push to claim the hardware, especially amidst the heavy pressure following Sunday’s semifinal loss to Malawi (3-1).
The Greens had to dig deep to pull themselves back into the match. Trailing early, they displayed immense grit to draw level late in the game through Lina Boussaha, forcing the contest into spot-kicks. While that equalizer offered temporary relief, the final minutes erupted in controversy once more due to a highly dubious refereeing call granting Morocco a phantom penalty. This questionable decision will surely spark debate, particularly since the Moroccan squad benefited from multiple controversial officiating calls throughout the tournament.
With seconds remaining, Algeria stood on the brink of seeing their hard work erased. Morocco held the chance to reclaim the lead and steal the bronze. Ultimately, the spot-kick smashed off Chloe Ngazi’s left post.
Having proven crucial during regulation time, Chloe Ngazi delivered her finest performance when Algeria needed it most. During the shootout, the Algerian goalkeeper produced a series of pivotal saves, keeping the Greens alive before propelling them toward a monumental bronze medal. It was a masterclass under pressure, where a single save can redefine an entire campaign.
The Algerians kept their composure heading into the penalty shootout, demonstrating superior nerve to prevail 3-2. It marked a glorious triumph for Benstiti’s team, who can now celebrate a reward equal to their incredible journey.
Above all, this bronze medal signifies a shift in status for Algerian women’s football. Long sidelined from the upper echelons of continental sports, the Greens have reached a major milestone by breaking into the final four, qualifying for the 2027 World Cup, and finishing on the podium.
This third-place finish carries extra weight given the context of the playoff. Playing against the host nation in a stadium firmly behind Morocco—and enduring yet another match-ending call in favor of the home team—Algeria resisted until the very end. The Warriors held the line, answered on the pitch, and head home with historic medals around their necks.