Morocco Triumphs Over South Africa to Secure World Cup Spot
In an exhilarating quarter-final match of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) held in Rabat on Saturday, Morocco defeated South Africa with a score of 2-1, securing their place at the 2027 Women’s World Cup.
Sakina Ouzraoui opened the scoring for Morocco with a stunning volley, showcasing her skill and precision. Following her, Hanane Aït El Haj extended the lead with a confidently taken penalty, giving Morocco a clear advantage. Despite a spirited performance from South Africa and a goal from Thembi Kgatlana, they could not equalize, thus confirming Morocco’s victory. This match also allowed Morocco to avenge their previous loss to South Africa in the final of the 2022 tournament.
Morocco’s win marked their progression to the semi-finals of WAFCON, while South Africa will have to navigate a more complex path to secure a spot in the upcoming World Cup. South Africa’s upcoming challenge will involve contending against the loser of the match between Cameroon and Nigeria for a chance to enter FIFA’s inter-confederation play-offs.
In the match, Ouzraoui’s opening goal, which came in the 31st minute, exemplified Morocco’s strategic prowess. Her volley past South African goalkeeper Kaylin Swart was a pivotal moment that shifted the momentum in Morocco’s favor. Although Ghizlane Chebbak had an opportunity to double the lead before halftime, her shot went over the bar, leaving the score at 1-0 by the break.
Shortly after the restart, Morocco was awarded a penalty due to a foul by Noxolo Cesane on Chebbak. El Haj stepped up and expertly converted, capitalizing on the opportunity. In response, Kgatlana capitalized on a pass from teammate Karabo Dhlamini to score a goal, narrowing the deficit to 2-1 but ultimately falling short as the match progressed.
Morocco’s defense remained strong, even as South Africa pressed for an equalizer, maintaining focus and composure to secure their advancement in the tournament. This victory not only reflects Morocco’s growing prominence in women’s football but also heightens anticipation for their upcoming semi-final clash, further building on the momentum they have generated after making their World Cup debut in 2023.
The 2026 WAFCON will take place from July 26th to August 16th in Morocco, featuring 16 of the continent’s top teams. The tournament will unfold across venues in Rabat and Casablanca, offering a platform for exhilarating African football.
