Morocco win historic African women's futsal title - Sports - Al-Ahram Weekly
The Lionesses of the Atlas came from two goals down to secure their first-ever Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title, with Jasmine Demraoui netting the decisive goal in the final minute of regulation time.
According to cafonline, the win not only handed Morocco their maiden trophy in women's futsal but also secured their qualification for the first-ever FIFA Women's Futsal World Cup, set to be held in the Philippines from 27 November to 7 December this year.
Finalists Tanzania also booked their spot in the global showpiece.
Anastazia Katunzi of Tanzania opened the scoring in the fourth minute, capitalising on a poorly cleared ball to fire her side ahead.
Tanzania doubled their advantage in the 16th minute through Jamila Rajabu, finishing off a swift counter-attack.
Just before half-time, Doha El Madani slotted home a penalty to pull one back.
In the 34th minute, Drissia Korrych levelled the tie from a cleverly worked corner.
In the dying seconds, Demraoui found space to fire a precise low drive across the goalkeeper to complete a stunning comeback and ignite wild celebrations in Rabat.
Earlier in the day, Cameroon claimed third place with a thumping 4-1 win over Angola.
Egypt defeated Madagascar 4-2 to take fifth place in the nine-team tournament which were representing all five Confederation of African Football (CAF) sub regions.
Egypt had played two games in the group stage, losing to Angola 3-1, then tying with Guinea 3-3 for one point.
The tournament's individual awards went to Jasmine Demraoui (Best Player, Morocco), Doha El Madani (Top Scorer with 5 goals, Morocco), and Nassra Abbas (Best Goalkeeper, Tanzania). Namibia were recognised with the Fair Play Award.
* A version of this article appears in print in the 8 May, 2025 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly
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