WAFCON semis kick off today, featuring Algeria, Malawi, Morocco, and Cameroon

The GIST: Though it’s been infamously difficult to watch here in North America, the WAFCON semis kick off in Morocco today. All four African nations automatically booked their spots in next year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup by making it this far — now, it’s all about continental glory. Here’s what to expect on the pitch.

🇩🇿 Algeria vs. 🇲🇼 Malawi — Today at 1 p.m. ET: Both Algeria and tourney debutant Malawi are making their first WAFCON semis appearances. Malawi has had a breakout story for the ages, taking down defending champ Nigeria in the group stage behind powerhouse sister scoring duo Tabitha (Lyon) and Temwa Chawinga (Kansas City Current).

• But don’t sleep on Algeria, namely 20-year-old midfielder Mélissa Bethi (Washington Spirit). Age is but a number.

🇲🇦 Morocco vs. 🇨🇲 Cameroon — Today at 4 p.m. ET: Host Morocco has been here before, having advanced to (and lost) the last two WAFCON finals. A commanding semis dub will be the first step in ending their WAFCON curse. Watch for defender Hanane Aït El Haj (AS FAR) to keep on pouring in assists.

• However, Cameroonian Marie Ngah Manga’s (Fenerbahçe) hot foot could be their downfall — the forward’s scored three goals already this tourney. Not done yet.