East Africa’s journey at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) got off to a difficult start as Kenya’s Harambee Starlets suffered a heavy 4–0 defeat at the hands of host nation Morocco at the Stade Prince Moulay Hassan in Rabat.
Meanwhile, regional focus now shifts swiftly to Group B, where Tanzania’s Twiga Stars prepare to take on defending champions South Africa tonight in Casablanca.
Making their long-awaited return to the continental tournament after ten years away, Kenya initially showed promise, nearly taking the lead inside five minutes when forward Tereza Engesha’s curling shot struck the crossbar.
However, the host nation quickly asserted control:
Sakina Ouzraoui broke the defense to put Morocco ahead.
Maryame Atiq headed home from a corner to double the cushion.
Ibtissam Jraidi chipped a header over Lilian Awuor before the break.
Two minutes into the second stanza, Jraidi capitalized on a defensive mistake to complete her brace and wrap up the 4–0 win.
In the opening fixture of Group A, Algeria delivered a clinical performance, sweeping past Senegal 2–0 to claim three vital points and secure second place in the group standings behind leaders Morocco on goal difference.
Group A Standings:
1. Morocco 3 points
2. Algeria 3 points
3. Senegal 0 points
4. Kenya 0 points
East African football fans will look to Tanzania’s Twiga Stars tonight as Bakari Shime’s side begins its Group B campaign against 2022 champions South Africa.
Tanzania enter the tournament in strong form after pushing powerhouse Nigeria to the wire in a close 2–1 friendly defeat last week in Casablanca.
Group B Match Schedule (Tonight)
South Africa vs. Tanzania / 8:00 PM
Ivory Coast vs. Burkina Faso | 11:00 PM
