Atlas Lionesses March into WAFCON Quarterfinals After Hard-Fought Victory Over Senegal
RABAT – Morocco has officially secured a spot in the quarter-finals of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) with a crucial 1-0 win over Senegal, further cementing its status as a rising powerhouse in African women’s football.
Playing on home soil, the Atlas Lionesses displayed strength, composure, and tactical discipline throughout the match. Despite dominating possession and creating multiple scoring opportunities, Morocco had to wait until the final minute of the first half to break the deadlock. The breakthrough came from a confidently converted penalty by Yassmine Mrabet after a VAR review confirmed a violent foul in the box — Aziza Rabbah was struck in the face by the Senegalese goalkeeper’s elbow, resulting in a clear penalty decision.
Led by team captain Ghizlane Chebbak, the Lionesses commanded the game with relentless energy and cohesion, though they missed at least four clear chances to extend their lead. The win crowns Morocco’s group-stage campaign with seven points and sends a strong message to the rest of the competition.
The Atlas Lionesses opened their WAFCON 2024 journey with a dramatic 2-2 comeback against Zambia and followed it with a convincing 4-2 triumph over DR Congo. Their unbeaten run in the group stage is a testament to their growing maturity and determination.
Morocco is hosting the prestigious tournament for the second consecutive time, and the national women’s team has their sights set on going one better than their runner-up finish in 2022.
This success is not accidental. It is the result of strategic and sustained investment in women’s football by the Kingdom of Morocco. Under the leadership of King Mohammed VI, grassroots programs, infrastructure, and club development have all received unprecedented support. Clubs such as AS FAR and FUS Rabat now lead the way in promoting women’s football, reflecting a nationwide movement toward gender inclusion in sport.
With each passing match, Morocco’s performance at WAFCON continues to inspire a new generation of girls to dream bigger, play harder, and represent their nation with pride. The Atlas Lionesses are not just chasing victory—they are paving the way for a bright, inclusive future in Moroccan football.
BY: The Times Union
