Morocco, as the host nation, has reached the final of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON)! They booked their place after a thrilling semifinal against Ghana, where the match finished in a 1-1 draw and was decided by penalties. The Moroccan side, with goalkeeper Khadija Er-Rmichi in inspired form, won 4-2 in the penalty shoot-out. They’ll now face Nigeria in a greatly anticipated final on Saturday!
This victory is an enormous triumph for Morocco, after their sensational run in the tournament. In the Challenger category, Cameroon had reached the semifinals as well, doing so with a dominant 3-1 victory against Mali. Moreover, Morocco made history this year by participating in the Women’s World Cup for the first time and reaching the round of 16.
Key Moments in the Semifinal
The match against Ghana unfolded dramatically. Ghana had the early advantage for a long period in the first half and threatened Morocco. The pivotal moment arrived in the 55th minute when Sakina Ouzraoui scored to level the match. Ouzraoui skillfully controlled a pass with her chest before slotting the ball past Ghana’s goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan, showcasing her remarkable talent under pressure.
Neither team lacked the chances to get on the score sheet. It took a nerve-wracking penalty kick decider to choose a champion, not a single goal was scored by either team in regulation or overtime. The Moroccan players showed tremendous composure throughout the full 120 minutes of the match, leading to their decisive win in the penalty shootout.
The Road to the Final
Morocco’s path to the final has been characterized by significant achievements and a growing reputation in women’s football. Their fairy-tale run started with a confident 3-1 win against Mali in the quarterfinals. This victory provided them their first opportunity to prove their might on the world’s biggest stage.
Their experience at WAFCON in 2022 was transformative. They lost that final match heavily to South Africa, and that loss has given them the fire they’ve needed to achieve their present success. So this year, they’re focused on earning the crown. First, Nigeria lies in wait, with the Super Falcons having knocked out favorites South Africa 2-1 in semifinal on Thursday.
It was a hard-fought match with the Nigerian team taking an early lead when Rasheedat Ajibade scored with a penalty right before half-time. South Africa rallied and leveled with a spot kick from Linda Motlhalo in the 60th minute. Michelle Alozie netted a dramatic late winner that ensured Nigeria’s place in the final.
Looking Ahead
Morocco’s Atlas Lionesses prepare for the final against Nigeria. They are armed with the hopes of their nation and an undeniable high from their shocking run through recent months. The Fournier crowd at Stade Larbi Zaouli always fiercely backs their team. They sing for the players in the stands during game days, making one of the most energetic atmospheres you can imagine.
