Morocco continues its journey in the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. Facing South Africa on Saturday night at the Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat, the Atlas Lionesses won 2-1 in a hard-fought quarterfinal. This victory opens the doors to the semifinals and also secures their qualification for the 2027 World Cup in Brazil.
The Moroccan team took the lead in the 31st minute thanks to Sakina Ouzraoui, who found the back of the net to give her team a valuable advantage at halftime. Upon returning from the break, Jorge Vilda’s players quickly extended their lead. Hanane Aït El Haj converted a penalty in the 52nd minute to make it 2-0.
However, South Africa managed to revive the match through Thembi Kgatlana in the 67th minute. The Banyana Banyana then pushed to equalize, forcing the Moroccan team to remain vigilant until the end.
Solid in the final minutes, the Atlas Lionesses maintained their lead to win 2-1 and eliminate South Africa. Morocco thus continues its adventure at home and confirms its place among the four best teams on the continent.
This qualification is also particularly significant as Morocco directly secures its ticket to the 2027 Women’s World Cup. The Atlas Lionesses will now compete in a semifinal with the ambition of continuing their journey and getting closer to a first continental title.
