The Atlas Lionesses could hardly have asked for a better start to the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations, defeating Kenya 4-0 on Sunday evening at Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat.
A clinical attacking display saw Sakina Ouzraoui Diki, Maryame Atiq, and Ibtissam Jraidi, who netted twice, guide Morocco to a convincing opening victory and three valuable points in Group A.
Morocco Take Control Early
Backed by an enthusiastic home crowd, Morocco wasted little time asserting its authority.
Sakina Ouzraoui Diki broke the deadlock in the 19th minute, giving the hosts a deserved lead before Maryame Atiq doubled the advantage just nine minutes later.
The Atlas Lionesses continued to press with confidence, and Ibtissam Jraidi added a third goal in the 32nd minute, capping a devastating spell that put Morocco firmly in command before halftime.
Jraidi Seals the Victory
Any hopes of a Kenyan comeback disappeared shortly after the restart.
Just two minutes into the second half, Jraidi struck again to complete her brace and put the result beyond doubt, rounding off an outstanding attacking performance from Jorge Vilda's side.
Morocco controlled the remainder of the contest with composure, securing an emphatic clean sheet to launch its continental campaign in impressive fashion.
A Perfect Start to the Title Chase
The victory provides Morocco with the ideal foundation as the Atlas Lionesses pursue a historic first Women's AFCON title.
After finishing as runners-up in both 2022 and 2024, expectations are high for the hosts, who once again have the opportunity to compete for continental glory in front of their supporters.
The dominant performance against Kenya offered an encouraging glimpse of the quality and confidence within Vilda's squad.
Focus Shifts to Algeria
Morocco now turns its attention to a crucial Group A encounter against Algeria, scheduled for July 30 at Moulay El Hassan Stadium.
The Atlas Lionesses will then complete the group stage against Senegal on August 3, aiming to continue their strong momentum into the knockout rounds.
With three points secured, four goals scored, and confidence growing, Morocco has taken the first step toward its dream of lifting the Women's Africa Cup of Nations trophy on home soil.
With a dominant display and four unanswered goals, Morocco's Atlas Lionesses have taken the perfect first step in their quest for continental glory.