Algeria shocks Ivory Coast to reach women’s CAN semifinals
The Algerian national women’s football team secured a historic victory on Saturday, defeating Ivory Coast 2-1 in the CAN Women’s quarter-finals to qualify for the semifinals for the first time in their history. The win also guarantees Algeria a spot at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Algeria’s Green Women stunned their opponents by overturning a 1-0 deficit in the final quarter of the match. Ivory Coast had taken the lead early through Inès Konan in the 30th minute, but their hopes of advancing were dealt a major blow when their star player, Safi N’Sira Ouedraogo, received a straight red card for a dangerous challenge on Algerian goalkeeper Chloé N’Gazi in the 42nd minute. The sending-off left Ivory Coast with ten players for the remainder of the match.
The Algerian side, led by coach Farid Benstiti, seized the opportunity with determination. Inès Khiri equalized shortly after the break, coming on as a substitute at halftime and scoring in the 58th minute. The turning point came just six minutes later when Ivory Coast missed a penalty opportunity. Rebecca Elloh’s shot struck the post, leaving the door open for Algeria to push forward.
The decisive moment arrived in the 64th minute when Amira Ould Braham capitalized on a costly error by Ivory Coast goalkeeper Aramatou Diakité to restore Algeria’s lead. The Green Women held firm to secure their place in the semifinals, where they will face the winner of the Malawi-Ghana quarter-final clash.
Historic achievement for Algerian football
With this hard-fought victory, Algeria has not only reached the semifinals of the CAN Women for the first time but has also secured qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup. The team’s journey, which began with a quarter-final appearance in the previous edition, has now culminated in a historic milestone that will be remembered for years to come.
The Algerian squad, known for their resilience and tactical discipline, has demonstrated why they are considered one of the rising forces in African women’s football. Their success is a testament to the growing investment and development in the sport across the continent.
A new chapter in African women’s football
Algeria’s qualification for the semifinals marks a significant moment for women’s football in Africa. Their performance has inspired a new generation of players and fans, proving that the sport is gaining momentum on the continent. As the team prepares to face their next challenge, the football world will be watching closely to see if they can continue their remarkable run.
