Algeria qualifies for the Women's World Cup by reaching the Africa Cup semifinals

Algeria’s women’s national team advanced to the Africa Cup of Nations semifinals for the first time, while also securing a spot in the FIFA Women’s World Cup, after overturning a deficit to defeat Ivory Coast 2-1 on Saturday in Casablanca.

Ivory Coast took the lead in the 29th minute through Inès Konan, before suffering a major blow when young player Nesrine Waghdraougo was sent off just before halftime.

Algeria turned the match around by scoring two goals within a six-minute span, one before and one after the hour mark, through substitute Ines Khelifi and Amira Brahimi.

Between Algeria’s two goals, Ivory Coast missed a chance to regain the lead when a penalty kick taken by Rebecca Eilo struck the post.

Algeria will face the winner of the Sunday match between Malawi and Ghana in the semifinals. The draw for next year’s 32-team FIFA Women’s World Cup, to be hosted by Brazil, will also take place.

The red card shown to 18-year-old Waghdraougo proved decisive in the match. She received the dismissal for striking Algerian goalkeeper Chloe Naggazi in the face, depriving Ivory Coast of the advantage they had established during the first half.

After failing to create significant threats on Ivory Coast’s goal in the first 45 minutes, Algeria imposed their dominance in the second half and generated numerous scoring opportunities.

Later on Saturday, the quarterfinals will feature a clash between host nation Morocco and South Africa in Rabat. On Sunday, defending champions Nigeria will face Cameroon, followed by the match between Ghana and Malawi.