Morocco advances to Women's Africa Cup of Nations quarter-finals with victory over Senegal

Ya Biladi

a day ago

The Moroccan national team displayed remarkable resilience to secure a place in the quarter-finals of the 2024 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), defeating Senegal 1-0 on Saturday evening at Rabat's Olympic Stadium, in their final Group A match.
From the outset, the Atlas Lionesses took control of the game with aggressive wing play, while remaining anchored defensively to contain any Senegalese counterattacks. Senegal created an early threat through Nguenar Ndiaye in the 16th minute, but Morocco quickly regained the upper hand. Ibtissam Jraïdi nearly opened the scoring a minute later, but her shot was cleared off the line by the Senegalese defense.
Led by captain Ghizlane Chebbak, the Moroccan side maintained pressure with well-placed through balls that disrupted Senegal's defensive line, though they struggled to convert their chances.
The breakthrough came just before halftime when Senegalese goalkeeper Adji Ndiaye brought down Ibtissam Jraïdi in the box. Yasmin Mrabet calmly converted the resulting penalty in the 45+2 minute, giving Morocco a deserved lead.
After the break, Jorge Vilda's squad pushed for a second goal. Substitutes like Imane Saoud, who replaced Sakina Ouzraoui, added fresh energy. Morocco came close through Jraïdi (69'), Fatima Tagnaout (71'), and Élodie Nakkach (73'), but the Senegalese defense held firm.
At the other end, veteran goalkeeper Khadija Er-Rmichi stood tall, notably denying a dangerous set piece from Marième Babou in the 68th minute.
With this win, Morocco finishes top of Group A with seven points, edging Zambia on goal difference. Zambia also won their final match, beating DR Congo 1-0 in Mohammedia, thanks to a 9th-minute goal from Racheal Kundananji.