Morocco storms past South Africa into CAN Women’s semifinals

Goals: Ouzraoui (31st), Ait El Haj (52nd pen) for Morocco’s Atlas Lionesses // Kgatlana (67th) for South Africa’s Banyana Banyana

Morocco secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over South Africa on Saturday evening, booking their spot in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations semifinals. The match also marked South Africa’s revenge against Morocco for their 2022 final defeat. For the South African side, this was their earliest quarterfinal exit since Desiree Ellis took charge in 2016. Meanwhile, Morocco’s win guarantees them a place in the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Morocco’s defense cracks under pressure

Morocco had entered the tournament as the only team yet to concede a goal. Their ironclad defense, led by coach Jorge Vilda, aimed to maintain this record. However, the game got off to a slow start, with the first real chance arriving in the 14th minute when Thembi Kgatlana’s shot was saved by Khadija Errmichi. Morocco’s breakthrough came through Sakina Ouzraoui, who volleyed home a cross from Hanane Ait El Haj in the 32nd minute, breaking the deadlock.

The Atlas Lionesses went into halftime with a narrow lead, but the second half saw their defense come under immediate pressure. In the 50th minute, Fikile Magama fouled Ghizlane Chebbak inside the box, giving Morocco a golden opportunity to extend their lead. Ait El Haj, who had previously set up the opener, stepped up to convert the penalty, doubling Morocco’s advantage.

South Africa pulled a goal back in the 67th minute when Magama redeemed herself by firing past Errmichi. Despite the late surge, South Africa failed to find an equalizer, and Morocco held firm to claim a well-deserved victory. This win marks Morocco’s third consecutive semifinal appearance in the tournament, extending their impressive run.

The journey continues for the Atlas Lionesses.

Morocco (4-2-3-1): Errmichi – Ait El Haj, Atiq, Benzina, Redouani – Mrabet, Nakkach – Ouzraoui (Saoud, 90+3’), Chebbak (Badri, 57’), Tagnaout (Jraidi, 74’) – Mssoudy. Head coach: Jorge Vilda.

South Africa (4-3-3): Swart – Magama, Mbane, Gamede, Dhlamini – Motau (Moodaly, 58’), Jane, Molthalo (Donnelly, 84’) – Cesane (Ramalepe, 73’), Kgatlana, Magaia. Head coach: Desiree Ellis.