West Ham United defender Inès Belloumou played a key role as Algeria secured their place in the quarter-finals of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations with a controlled 2-0 win over Kenya in Rabat on Monday evening.
The Hammers’ No.7 completed the full 90 minutes once again, providing defensive stability on the flank as Les Fennecs delivered a disciplined and organised performance to finish second in Group A, just one point behind hosts Morocco.
Algeria made a strong start and took the lead in the first half through Marine Dafeur, who finished from close range after sustained pressure inside the Kenya penalty area. The advantage was doubled before the break when Lynda Bendris struck to reward Algeria’s dominance in possession and territory.
After the interval, Algeria managed the game effectively, limiting Kenya’s attacking opportunities and maintaining control through structured defending and patient build-up play. Belloumou was consistently involved in shutting down attacks down her side, helping her team preserve a clean sheet as Kenya pushed forward in search of a response.
The result ensures Algeria progress to the knockout stages, where they will now turn their attention to a quarter-final tie against one of the tournament’s group winners. With momentum building and defensive confidence high, Belloumou and her teammates will look to carry their form into the next round as they continue their bid for a place in the semi-finals.
* Something to say about this story? Please visit the KUMB Forum to leave a comment.
