Morocco Thrash Kenya 4-0 to Make Strong WAFCON 2026 Statement

Morocco Thrash Kenya 4-0 to Make Strong WAFCON 2026 Statement

By BSN Sports 

Hosts Morocco made an emphatic start to their 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) campaign with a commanding 4-0 victory over Kenya's Harambee Starlets in their Group A clash at the Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on Sunday, BSNSports.com.ng reports 

The Atlas Lionesses dominated proceedings from the outset and took the lead in the 19th minute when Sanaa Mssoudy finished off a move created by Yasmin Mrabet. Morocco doubled their advantage nine minutes later through Maryame Atiq, leaving Kenya with a mountain to climb before halftime.

Forward Ibtissam Jraidi then took center stage, scoring twice to put the result beyond doubt. She netted her first in the 32nd minute from Hanane Hajji's assist before completing her brace just two minutes after the restart, again benefiting from Hajji's creativity.

Morocco's superiority was reflected in the match statistics. The hosts registered 19 shots compared to Kenya's eight, with 10 efforts on target against three. They also enjoyed 65 percent possession and earned five corner kicks, while Kenya managed two.

The Harambee Starlets, making only their second appearance at the continental tournament, struggled to cope with the experience and quality of the 2022 runners-up. Kenya's only booking came in stoppage time when Mercy Airo received a yellow card for a late challenge.

Earlier in the day, Algeria opened their Group A campaign with a 2-0 victory over Senegal.

The results leave Morocco at the top of Group A on goal difference, level on three points with Algeria. Senegal and Kenya remain without a point after the opening round of matches. The top two teams in the group will qualify for the quarterfinals.

Action continues on Monday in Group B, with defending champions South Africa facing Tanzania at the Rabat Olympic Stadium before Côte d'Ivoire take on Burkina Faso at the Moulay Abdellah Stadium.

Tuesday's fixtures will see Zambia meet Egypt, while 10-time African champions Nigeria begin their title defense against tournament debutants Malawi at Al Madina Stadium in Rabat.This version adopts a neutral, wire-service style suitable for publication while correcting grammar, tightening the structure, and emphasizing the key match events before the standings and upcoming fixtures.