By Razeen Gutta
Hosts Morocco edged defending champions South Africa 2-1 on Saturday night to reach the semi-finals of the CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations and qualify for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
The Atlas Lionesses started off on the front foot. Sanaa Mssoudy went close in the 20th minute with a header that drifted over and Banyana replied a minute later through Thembi Kgatlana, who also fired wide.
Morocco broke the deadlock in the 31st minute. Sakina Ouzraoui was quickest to react inside the box and produced a clean first-time finish past Kaylin Swart for her second goal of the tournament.
The hosts doubled their lead six minutes after half-time. Ibtissam Jraïdi stepped up and converted a penalty after the referee pointed to the spot following a foul in the area.
Banyana Banyana pushed back and got a lifeline in the 67th minute. Kgatlana cut in from the left and unleashed a powerful strike to make it 2-1, setting up a nervy finish.
South Africa pressed late, but Morocco’s defence stayed compact and organised. The hosts absorbed the pressure to hold on and spark celebrations in the stands.
Morocco now advance to the semi-finals on Wednesday 12 August, while also sealing their ticket to the 2027 World Cup in Brazil.
Pictured above: Banyana Banyana
Source: @banyanabanyana_official
