Morocco crush Cape Verde to send strong WAFCON 2026 warning

Five days before hosting the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), Morocco delivered a statement performance by thrashing Cape Verde 5-0 in their final warm-up match on Tuesday at Père Jégo Stadium in Casablanca. The emphatic victory provided the Atlas Lionesses with the perfect confidence boost ahead of the continental showpiece, where they will be aiming to lift the trophy on home soil after finishing runners-up in the last two editions.

Jorge Vilda’s side took control from the outset and deservedly opened the scoring in the 23rd minute through experienced striker Ibtissam Jraidi. Morocco doubled their advantage just before the break when Sanaâ Mssoudy found the back of the net to put the hosts firmly in command. The second half belonged to Mssoudy, who completed a superb hat-trick by scoring twice within two minutes around the hour mark (62′, 64′). Midfielder Yasmin Mrabet added a fifth goal in the 84th minute to wrap up an outstanding team display.

Atlas Lionesses Extend Unbeaten Run

The convincing victory underlines Morocco’s excellent form in 2026. The Atlas Lionesses remain unbeaten this year and recorded their biggest win since a 5-0 friendly triumph over Burkina Faso in February.

With momentum firmly on their side, Morocco head into WAFCON 2026 full of confidence and determined to finally claim the continental crown in front of their home supporters.

Tough Group Awaits Morocco

The hosts will begin their WAFCON campaign on 26 July against Kenya in Rabat before facing regional rivals Algeria on 30 July. Morocco will then conclude their Group A fixtures against Senegal on 3 August, with all three matches scheduled to be played at Prince Moulay El Hassan Stadium.

After coming so close in recent editions, the Atlas Lionesses believe this could finally be their year to make history and become African champions for the first time.