In an electrifying match held in Rabat, Morocco, the national women’s soccer team triumphed over South Africa with a score of 2-1, earning their place in the upcoming Women's World Cup. This significant victory took place during the quarterfinals of the Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) on Saturday, August 8, 2026. The Moroccan squad showcased their skill and determination, highlighted by goals from Sakina Ouzraoui and Hanane Aït El Haj. Ouzraoui opened the scoring in the 32nd minute with a stunning volley that sailed past the South African goalkeeper, Kaylin Swart, marking a pivotal moment in the match.
The game intensified further when, just after halftime, Morocco was awarded a penalty kick due to a foul by Noxolo Cesane on Ghizlane Chebbak, who unfortunately had to leave the match due to injury. Aït El Haj stepped up to the spot and successfully converted the penalty, extending Morocco's lead to 2-0. South Africa, however, was not ready to concede defeat easily. Thembi Kgatlana pulled one back for her team in the 67th minute, scoring after a lengthy video review confirmed her goal following an initial offside call. This marked Kgatlana's ninth goal in the WAFCON since her debut in 2018, demonstrating her consistent performance at the tournament.
With this victory, Morocco not only advances to the semifinals but also secures their second appearance in the Women's World Cup, having previously reached the round of 16 in 2023. The team will now prepare to face the winner of the quarterfinal match between Nigeria and Cameroon, scheduled for Sunday. Meanwhile, South Africa still has a chance to qualify for the World Cup, as the teams that lost in the quarterfinals will compete for a spot in an intercontinental playoff later this week.
As reported by newsday.com.
