The Atlas Lionesses have already turned their attention toward one final challenge at the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations.
Following their painful semifinal defeat to Cameroon, Hanane Ait El Haj addressed the Moroccan supporters and emphasized the team's determination to respond with a strong performance against Algeria.
A Difficult Moment for the Atlas Lionesses
Speaking during Friday's press conference, Ait El Haj acknowledged the disappointment felt throughout the Moroccan camp after missing out on a place in the final.
The defender also expressed her apologies to the supporters, recognizing the incredible backing the team has received throughout the tournament.
For the players, however, the focus is already shifting toward the final opportunity to finish the competition positively.
One More Battle Against Algeria
Morocco will face Algeria on Saturday in the third-place playoff, giving both teams another chance to end their WAFCON campaigns with a victory.
Ait El Haj stressed that the Atlas Lionesses must now put the semifinal result behind them and channel their energy into producing their best football in the final match.
The objective is clear: win the bronze medal and give Moroccan supporters another reason to celebrate.
Playing for the Supporters
Throughout the tournament, Moroccan fans have created an extraordinary atmosphere around the Atlas Lionesses.
Ait El Haj highlighted that support as an important source of motivation for the squad and said the players want to repay that belief with a strong finish.
The message from inside the camp is one of resilience: the journey is not over yet.
One Final Push
The third-place playoff represents Morocco's final opportunity to add another positive chapter to its home tournament.
The Atlas Lionesses will step onto the pitch knowing exactly what is at stake—and with the support of an entire nation behind them.
One last match. One final opportunity to make the Moroccan supporters proud. The Atlas Lionesses are ready to give everything for the bronze.