Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Atlas Lionesses made a resounding statement of intent in their quest for a maiden Women's Africa Cup of Nations title, launching their 2026 campaign with a dominant 4-0 victory over Kenya at the Stade Prince Moulay Hassan in Rabat on Sunday. For the 10-time champions and defending titleholders, Nigeria, who are aiming for an 11th crown, this result will certainly serve as a warning from the tournament hosts.
The home side wasted no time establishing control, with Sakina Ouzraoui opening the scoring in the 19th minute after a swift attacking move to silence any early Kenyan resistance. Morocco doubled their lead just nine minutes later when Maryame Atiq rose highest to head home from a corner kick in the 28th minute. The first-half onslaught was completed in the 32nd minute when forward Ibtissam Jraïdi headed home from a cross to make it 3-0.
Jraïdi, who finished as the tournament's top scorer in 2024, proved clinical once again, completing her brace just two minutes after the restart to seal a comprehensive 4-0 victory. The gulf in class was reflected in the stats, as Morocco enjoyed 65.9 per cent possession and registered 17 goal attempts with 10 on target, while Kenya managed only two attempts. The Harambee Starlets' best chance came early through Tereza Engesha, whose thunderous strike crashed off the crossbar in the 5th minute. However, the hosts proved too strong as they aim to go one better after finishing as runners-up in the previous two tournaments.
The result sees Morocco top Group A on goal difference, level on three points with Algeria, who defeated Senegal 2-0 in the earlier match. Morocco will face Algeria in a crucial clash on Thursday, while Kenya must regroup ahead of their must-win encounter against Senegal.
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