Morocco's Nouhaila Benzina and Hanane Ait El Haj have been selected in the official Team of the Tournament for the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), as announced by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) on August 24, 2026.
Benzina, who made history at the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup as the first player to wear a hijab in a World Cup match, and Ait El Haj, both defenders, were key contributors to Morocco's impressive run in the tournament. Morocco reached the final, where they faced South Africa, but fell short in a closely contested match.
The CAF technical study group selected the 18-player squad based on performances throughout the tournament. Morocco's strong defensive record was a highlight, with the team conceding only a few goals en route to the final.
This recognition underscores the growth of women's football in Morocco, which has invested heavily in the sport in recent years. The Atlas Lionesses have become a dominant force in African football, having also reached the final of the 2022 edition.
