The wait is over for the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2026. The Atlas Lionesses begin their campaign on Sunday, July 26, when they face Kenya’s Harambee Starlets at 9 p.m. at Stade Moulay El Hassan in Rabat.
The match will be broadcast on Arryadia, the third channel of Morocco’s SNRT public broadcaster. International viewers will also be able to watch the game on beIN Sports, Channel 4 in the United Kingdom, DAZN across Europe, Ziggo, and CANAL+ in French-speaking Africa, among other broadcasters.
The fixture will also be carried by SABC in South Africa, AZAM Media in parts of East Africa, including Tanzania, and BBC Radio in several Sub-Saharan African markets.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Morocco head coach Jorge Vilda said the squad has struck the right balance between experience and youth.
“We have a team that combines experience with talented young players. We are confident, but not overconfident. We will approach every match by giving our very best, because that is the only way to make the difference on the pitch.”
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Vilda added that the squad is eager to put months of preparation into practice, stressing that playing on home soil gives the team both an advantage and extra motivation.
Captain Ghizlane Chebbak echoed that confidence, saying the squad is ready to deliver a strong tournament.
“Hosting the Women’s AFCON in Morocco is an additional source of motivation for all of us.”
The tournament also serves as a qualifier for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil, scheduled from June 24 to July 25, 2027. Africa’s four semifinalists will qualify automatically, while two losing quarterfinalists will advance to the intercontinental playoffs.
Morocco made its FIFA Women’s World Cup debut in 2023 in Australia, reaching the Round of 16.
