Rabat, July 26, 2026 – The Europe Today: Morocco’s women’s national football team is aiming to begin its 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) campaign with a victory when the Atlas Lionesses take on Kenya on Sunday at Stade Moulay El Hassan in Rabat.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference on Saturday, head coach Jorge Vilda said the team is determined to translate months of preparation into strong performances as it opens the continental tournament on home soil.
“The best way to begin the tournament is by showing our quality on the field,” Vilda said, emphasizing the balance between experienced players and emerging talent within the Moroccan squad.
The Spanish coach expressed confidence in his players while stressing the importance of maintaining focus and taking the competition one match at a time.
He added that playing in front of home supporters provides additional motivation as the Atlas Lionesses seek to build on their previous achievements in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
“Our goal is to qualify for the next FIFA Women’s World Cup,” Vilda said, noting that all members of the squad are fully fit and ready to represent Morocco.
Team captain Ghizlane Chebbak also voiced confidence ahead of the opening fixture, describing the squad as united, well-prepared and fully focused on securing a positive result against Kenya.
“Hosting WAFCON in Morocco gives us even more motivation,” Chebbak said. “We are concentrating on the opening match and want to make our supporters proud.”
The Moroccan skipper acknowledged the expectations surrounding the tournament but described the pressure as a positive source of motivation, adding that the players are determined to demonstrate the progress achieved during their preparations despite facing experienced opponents.
Morocco will look to capitalize on home advantage as it begins its campaign with the ambition of making another strong run in the continental championship and securing qualification for the next FIFA Women’s World Cup.
