The Morocco international reflected positively on her campaign with Wydad Casablanca while discussing the objectives achieved with both the club and the national team, as well as the challenges awaiting the Atlas Lionesses at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. She also shared her outlook on the future of women’s football in Morocco, which she believes is making significant progress thanks to the efforts invested in recent years.
After helping Wydad finish third in the Moroccan league, Salmi first looked back on the club’s season. The forward discussed the team’s campaign and the injury problems that made the closing stages of the season more difficult, costing the Reds valuable points.
Despite those setbacks, she stressed the squad’s determination to achieve better results next season and challenge for the Botola title.
Asked about the upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, scheduled from July 26 to August 16, Salmi expressed high ambitions. She believes the Atlas Lionesses have the quality and experience needed to enjoy a successful tournament, make Moroccan supporters proud, and keep the trophy on home soil.
The Atlas Lioness also explained what she believes prevented Morocco from winning its first continental title after reaching the last two WAFCON finals—against South Africa in 2022 and Nigeria in 2025.
Finally, Salmi addressed the development of women’s football in Morocco. She praised the progress made in recent years, welcomed the investment being made in the game, and expressed hope that more young girls will join academy systems before reaching the highest level.
Rania Salmi. DR
Morocco has been drawn in Group A, where the Atlas Lionesses will open their campaign against Kenya on Sunday, July 26, before facing Algeria on Thursday, July 30, and concluding the group stage against Senegal on Monday, August 3.
At this edition of the tournament, Jorge Vilda’s side will be aiming to win the first Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title in Morocco’s history.
