Latest news with #WAFCON
CAF
an hour ago
- Sport
- CAF
Morocco vs Ghana: High-Stakes Duel as Hosts Face Battle-Hardened Black Queens in Rabat
Morocco and Ghana are set to collide under the lights at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on Tuesday in the second semifinal of the 2024 CAF TotalEnergies Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). With a place in the final at stake, both teams head into the clash with different narratives but identical goals. For Morocco, it's the dream of a second consecutive final on home soil. For Ghana, it's a chance to reestablish themselves as African giants after years of falling short. Road to the Semifinal: Momentum vs Resilience The host nation Morocco have enjoyed an unbeaten run into the last four, showing technical fluidity and control against their respective opponents. After an entertaining 2-2 draw with Zambia, they dispatched DR Congo 4-2, edged Senegal 1-0, and overcame Mali 3-1 in the quarterfinal to book their semifinal slot. Ghana's route has been far less straightforward. A 2-0 opening defeat to South Africa was followed by a 1-1 draw with Mali. The Black Queens came alive with a 4-1 victory over Tanzania before grinding out a 0-0 draw with Algeria and holding their nerve in a 4-2 penalty shootout win. Coaches Speak: Philosophy, Pressure, and Purpose Calm, calculated, and deeply intentional, Morocco head coach Jorge Vilda spoke like a man aware of the stakes — and the expectations of a nation behind him. 'We know the magnitude of this moment. Ghana are a very athletic and organized team," the reigning FIFA Women's World Cup champion said. "They play with intensity and we must be sharp and structured in all phases. We've worked on our shape, our transitions, and our composure in the final third. 'We're not playing just a semifinal. We're playing to take another step forward in our evolution. The players understand this and are mentally tuned in. They know what it means to wear the Moroccan shirt in front of our home fans. 'We respect Ghana, but we are focused on ourselves. We want to play our game and continue to build our identity. The goal is clear — reach the final.' In contrast, Ghana head coach Kim Björkegren brought a bold, no-nonsense tone, defiant yet grounded in his team's growth since he took charge. 'We've faced Morocco before, and yes, we lost — but that was the beginning. This is a different Ghana team. We've developed technically, we've built confidence, and now we're battle-tested," the Swedish tactician said. 'We're not here to complain about recovery time or travel. This is top-level football. If you want to win titles, you push through adversity. We are ready — tactically, mentally, and physically. 'Morocco will be at home, with the crowd, with the expectations. That pressure can be heavy. We plan to capitalize on that and play with freedom.' Players Speak: Resolve and Readiness Leading by example both on and off the pitch, Morocco forward Ibtissam Jraidi spoke with purpose, balancing humility with hunger. 'For us, this isn't just a game — it's a mission. We want to inspire. We want to win. We know Ghana are strong, but we're focused on ourselves. 'I'm not chasing individual accolades. Whether I score or assist doesn't matter. What matters is that we win as a team. 'The support from the fans lifts us. We feel it. We carry their hopes. And tomorrow, we want to make them proud.' Ghana defender Sherifat Sumaila reflected Ghana's unity and hunger, speaking with refreshing honesty and composure. 'We're excited, not intimidated. We've prepared for this moment for months. Everyone is focused. Everyone is hungry. 'This is my first major tournament, and it's been amazing. But now it's about the team. Whether I start or come in later, my job is to give everything. 'Morocco are organized, yes. But we believe in our group. We've shown we can come from behind, stay strong under pressure, and score when it matters.' Head-to-Head Statistics Morocco and Ghana have faced each other five times in friendly matches since 2020, with both sides enjoying periods of dominance. Ghana started strong, winning two of the first three encounters, including a 3-1 and a 2-0 victory in 2020. However, Morocco have since turned the tide, claiming back-to-back wins—a 2-0 win in 2022 and a narrow 1-0 triumph earlier this year in 2024. Overall, the record stands even, with three wins apiece and seven goals scored by each side across their recent clashes. The momentum, however, currently leans towards the host nation, Morocco, who are unbeaten in the last two meetings and will be looking to extend their edge in Tuesday's high-stakes semifinal. Players to Watch Morocco captain Ghizlane Chebbak remains tournament standout with four goals in four games, and is the heartbeat of the Atlas Lionesses, combining leadership, experience, and finishing ability. Former AS FAR and Saudi Arabia based forward Ibtissam Jraidi is a tireless attacker with big-game experience, pace and movement making her a constant threat in the final third. On the other hand, Ghana and Fenerbahce forward Alice Kusi returns after missing the quarterfinal. With two goals already, her creativity and sharpness will be vital against Morocco's defence. Another is Ghana midfielder Jennifer Cudjoe with composed presence in midfield, bringing balance and control, vital for Ghana's transitions and breaking Moroccan rhythm. What's certain is that both camps are battle ready - physically, mentally, and tactically and neither is backing down on their dreams to reach the final.
Morocco World
2 hours ago
- Sport
- Morocco World
Nigeria vs South Africa – Preview & Score Prediction
Nigeria will face South Africa on Tuesday in the semi-finals of the 2024 Women's Africa Cup of Nations in Casablanca. Kick-off is at 5 p.m. Moroccan time (GMT+1), a nd fans can catch the action live on beIN Sports, CANAL+, New WorldTV, SuperSport, Azam Media, SABC, Ziggo, BAND, SportTV, and Arena Sport. The two sides are familiar foes. Since 2010, they have met 12 times in all competitions, with Nigeria winning five, South Africa four, and three ending in draws. In WAFCON history alone, Nigeria have won eight of their 10 meetings. Nigeria are aiming for a record-extending 10th WAFCON title. South Africa, the defending champions, are looking to reach a third consecutive final and retain the trophy they won in Morocco in 2022. Both teams took contrasting paths to the last four. Nigeria thrashed Zambia 5–0 in the quarter-finals, while South Africa edged Senegal 4–1 on penalties after a goalless draw. Nigeria remain unbeaten and have yet to concede a goal at the tournament. Esther Okoronkwo leads the assist chart with four, while Chinwe Ihezuo is their top scorer with three goals. Captain Rasheedat Ajibade has won two Woman of the Match awards. In defence, Nigeria have looked solid with Osinachi Ohale marshalling the back line, supported by fullbacks Michelle Alozie and Ashley Plumptre. South Africa are without injured forward Thembi Kgatlana but have experience in Jermaine Seoposenwe, Hildah Magaia and Lebogang Ramalepe. Magaia, who scored twice in the 2022 final, has not yet found the net in this edition. Former Nigeria captain Desire Oparanozie told CAFOnline: 'It's more than just a game. A clash of titans with national pride on the line. Nigeria should defend narrowly and remain compact.' Ex-Banyana Banyana captain Amanda Dlamini added: 'It's going to be a mind game. South Africa must show composure in the final third and trust in their set pieces.' The winner will face either Morocco or Ghana in Saturday's final. Prediction: Nigeria's experience and defensive record give them the edge in a tight contest. Nigeria 2–1 South Africa (AET) Tags: Africa Cup of NationsnigeriaSouth AfricaWAFCON 2024
The Citizen
6 hours ago
- Sport
- The Citizen
Banyana or Nigeria? Who will win the battle of the best?
The top two sides in Africa go head-to-head in the WAFCON semifinals. Desiree Ellis is looking to win a second WAFCON in a row with Banyana Banyana. Picture: Sydney Mahlangu/BackpagePix Banyana Banyana and Nigeria – the top two sides on the continent – will meet on Tuesday in the semifinals of the Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in what promises to be a titanic battle. Desiree Ellis' Banyana are the reigning African champions, and determined to defend a title they won for the first time three years ago. Nigeria have worn the WAFCON crown a record nine times, and the Super Falcons gave a sign of their intent to get it back from Banyana in the quarterfinals, hammering Zambia 5-0. Banyana will hope they do not have too many tired legs at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca on Tuesday, after a quarterfinal that went all the way to penalties against Senegal. It is Ellis' side, however, who may hold a psychological edge, having beaten Nigeria in 2022, in the group stages of the WAFCON en route to winning the title. Banyana also beat Nigeria in the group stages at the previous WAFCON in 2018, though it was the Super Falcons who turned the tables on Ellis' side in the final, winning on penalties to capture that ninth crown. It is also Nigeria who are ranked higher on the continent than Banyana, and Randy Waldrum's side are favourites to win on Tuesday, priced by Betway at 1.75. Banyana are surely worth an outside bet at 4.40, however, with the draw at 3.30. Also on Tuesday, Ghana will play host Morocco in the other WAFCON semifinal at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat. Morocco are heavy favourites to reach at second successive final, priced at 1.54 to Ghana's 5.60 with a draw at 3.65. Morocco forward Ghizlane Chebbak is one to look out for – she bagged four goals in the group stages including a hat trick against DR Congo. Please note that the Betway odds are correct at the time of writing and subject to change.
The Citizen
6 hours ago
- Sport
- The Citizen
We must play like the champions we are
'Hopefully we can go to the final and bringing the cup back home would be the cherry on top,' added the Banyana forward. Gabriela Salgado says Banyana are ready to take on Nigeria in the WAFCON semifinals on Tuesday. Picture: Sydney Mahlangu/BackpagePix Banyana Banyana forward Gabriela Salgado says it is up to South Africa to show they are the best in the continent when they take on the Super Falcons of Nigeria on Tuesday in the semifinals of the Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). ALSO READ: Chiefs out to set stall for new season in Toyota Cup Banyana are defending the title they won three years ago, beating Nigeria along the way and hosts Morocco in the final to become African champions for the first time. Banyana have the form If Nigeria have the continental pedigree, with nine WAFCON titles to their name, it is Banyana who have the recent form. Banyana have beaten Nigeria in two of their last three meetings at a WAFCON finals. 'We are defending champions, we must just go and play like the champions we are,' Salgado said ahead of Tuesday's game at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca. 'We have the whole country behind us and our families at home, they are backing us and believe in us. It is just about believing in ourselves, in each other and playing the football we know how to play. Whatever chances we get, we need to take them.' If they can get past Nigeria, Banyana would be odds on for a second straight WAFCON title. 'Hopefully we can go to the final and bringing the cup back home would be the cherry on top,' added Salgado, who missed out on the last WAFCON triumph through injury. 'Being in a final would be amazing (personally),' she said. 'The team is prepared' 'But my teammates play a big role too. We are a good group of players who celebrate each other's wins. In women's football we boost each other, we want each other to succeed. But to succeed for myself and my fans would (also) be something incredible. ALSO READ: Sundowns' Cardoso reacts to being honoured in Portugal 'The team is prepared. We are ready and know what we have to do.'
IOL News
8 hours ago
- Sport
- IOL News
Key match-ups to decide Banyana Banyana's semi-final clash against Nigeria
HILDAH Magaia and Lebohang Ramalepe lead Banyana Banyana players in celebration against Mali. | BackpagePix Image: BackpagePix As Banyana Banyana prepare for a fierce WAFCON semi-final showdown against Nigeria, the game will hinge on individual duels across the pitch. These head-to-head match-ups could determine who advances to the final and secures automatic qualification for the 2026 FIFA Women's World Cup. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ Andile Dlamini vs Asisat Oshoala Dlamini's experience and composure in goal were pivotal in the shootout win over Senegal. She now faces a major test against Oshoala, who remains a constant threat with her pace, power and killer instinct. If Nigeria start creating chances, Dlamini's ability to command her area will be crucial. Bambanani Mbane vs Esther Okoronkwo Banyana Banyana centre back Bambanani Mbane has been one of the best defenders in the tournament. Image: BACKPAGEPIX Mbane brings calm leadership to Banyana's defence and will be tasked with containing Okoronkwo, who was sensational against Zambia with a goal and two assists. Mbane's reading of the game and timely interventions will need to be spot-on to keep the Nigerian forward quiet. Linda Motlhalo vs Deborah Abiodun Motlhalo's creativity and set-piece quality give Banyana a cutting edge in midfield. But Abiodun's tenacity and defensive work rate will make time and space scarce. This midfield tussle could swing the balance of the game, especially if either side dominates possession. Jermaine Seoposenwe vs Ashleigh Plumptre Jermaine Seoposenwe of South Africa. | BackpagePix Image: BackpagePix Seoposenwe's ability to beat defenders and find pockets of space makes her one of South Africa's most dangerous wide players. Plumptre is strong in the challenge and tactically disciplined — she'll need to be alert to Seoposenwe's drifting runs and eye for a clever pass. Hildah Magaia vs Tosin Demehin Magaia's physicality and goal sense give Banyana a real presence up front. She thrives in tight spaces and knows how to find half-chances. Demehin will have to keep a close watch on her movement in and around the box, especially during transitions. These battles could ultimately shape the narrative — and the destiny — of both teams.
