Morocco stuns South Africa to reach CAN Women semi-finals
Goals: Ouzraoui (31st), Ait El Haj (52nd penalty) for Morocco // Kgatlana (67th) for South Africa
The Moroccan Atlas Lionesses have secured their place in the semi-finals of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations after a hard-fought 2-1 victory over South Africa. This win also marks South Africa’s first quarter-final exit since 2016 under coach Desiree Ellis. For Morocco, the result guarantees their qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Morocco’s shaky defense concedes first goal
Morocco had entered the tournament as the only team yet to concede a goal. That remarkable defensive record came to an end in dramatic fashion. The match remained tight for the first 15 minutes before Thembi Kgatlana’s early strike was saved by Khadija Errmichi.
The breakthrough finally arrived through Sakina Ouzraoui. Receiving a cross from Hanane Ait El Haj, the Tenerife forward volleyed the ball past the South African goalkeeper to put Morocco ahead (1-0, 32nd minute).
The Atlas Lionesses nearly doubled their lead at halftime after Fikile Magama brought down Ghizlane Chebbak in the box. Hanane Ait El Haj converted the resulting penalty (2-0, 52nd minute), having already set up the opening goal.
South Africa pulled one back when Magama redeemed herself with a well-placed finish (2-1, 67th minute). However, the Moroccan defense held firm under pressure to preserve the win. This victory sees Morocco reach the semi-finals for the third consecutive time in the competition.
The journey continues for the Atlas Lionesses.
