Morocco edges out South Africa to reach semis
Morocco edges out South Africa to reach semis
Goals: Ouzraoui (31st), Ait El Haj (52nd, penalty) for Morocco // Kgatlana (67th) for South Africa
The Moroccan women’s national team secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over South Africa on Saturday, booking their spot in the CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations semifinals. This win avenged their 2022 final defeat to the South African side and marked a historic moment for both teams.
For South Africa, this marks their earliest exit in the tournament since Desiree Ellis took charge in 2016. Meanwhile, Morocco not only advances but also secures a place in the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Defensive lapses cost South Africa dear
Morocco had entered the game as the only team yet to concede a goal in the tournament—until the 14th minute. Thembi Kgatlana’s early strike forced goalkeeper Khadija Errmichi into action, but it was Morocco who broke the deadlock. Sakina Ouzraoui rose to meet Hanane Ait El Haj’s cross with a stunning volley, leaving the South African defense stunned (1-0, 32nd minute).
The lead was short-lived as Morocco kept pressing in the second half. Fikile Magama’s rash challenge inside the box on Ghizlane Chebbak earned a penalty, which Ait El Haj converted with clinical precision (2-0, 50th minute). Just as the game appeared to be slipping away, Magama pulled one back for South Africa (2-1, 67th minute). But the Moroccan defense held firm under intense pressure, ensuring their place in the last four.
This victory extends Morocco’s impressive run to three consecutive semifinals in the competition.
What’s next for Morocco?
The Atlas Lionesses will now face the winner of the Algeria vs. Senegal quarterfinal, aiming to continue their remarkable journey in this year’s tournament.
