Moroccan Lions Roar into Quarterfinals
On August 3, 2026, the Moroccan women's national football team achieved a significant milestone by securing a spot in the quarterfinals of the Africa Women’s Cup of Nations, held in Morocco. This advancement came after a hard-fought match against Senegal, which ended in a goalless draw at the Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat. The match was part of the third round of Group A competition, where the Moroccan team displayed their prowess and determination from the very beginning.
Right from the kick-off, the Moroccan Lionesses demonstrated a clear offensive strategy, effectively utilizing the wings with notable performances from players like Sanae Massoudi and Sakina Azraoui. The team applied considerable pressure on the Senegalese defense, allowing them to regain possession quickly and orchestrate attacks in advanced positions. The long passes from defenders Nahila Ben Zina and Mariam Atik to the flanks expanded their gameplay, creating numerous scoring opportunities, particularly for Sakina Azraoui, who came close to scoring on two occasions, with her attempts narrowly missing the upper corner of the Senegalese goal.
Captain Ghizlane Shabaki also had a chance to break the deadlock in the 14th minute after receiving a precise pass from Mariam Atik inside the penalty area but was unable to convert. Sakina Azraoui continued to threaten the Senegalese goal and had another shot in the 35th minute, forcing goalkeeper Aji Ndiaye to tip the ball over the crossbar for a corner kick. Senegal's Owa Diakhati responded with a powerful strike that hit the crossbar of Khadija Ramishi's goal in the 39th minute, highlighting the intensity of the match.
The Moroccan team maintained a high tempo and tactical superiority throughout the match, finishing the first half with commendable control and strategic play. As the second half commenced, the Lionesses sustained their assault, seeking to score against a more organized Senegalese side. Yasmin Al-Murabit had a prime opportunity to open the scoring in the 58th minute, but she could not convert the chance. The Senegalese side countered shortly after, but goalkeeper Khadija Ramishi was well-positioned to deflect the danger in the 60th minute.
Yasmin Al-Murabit again found herself in a promising position in the 69th minute, but her attempt to score from a penalty was thwarted by Aji Ndiaye, who made a crucial save, sending the ball to a corner. Following this match, the Moroccan national team concluded the group stage at the top of Group A with seven points, ahead of Algeria, who secured six points in second place. Unfortunately for Senegal and Kenya, their journey in the tournament ended with Kenya's loss to Algeria by two goals to none.
Looking ahead, the Lionesses will face the runner-up from Group B in the quarterfinals on Saturday, once again at the Moulay Hassan Stadium, as they continue their quest for continental glory.
As reported by maroc.ma.
