Morocco downs South Africa to reach Africa Cup of Nations semifinals
Morocco 2-1 South Africa
Goals: Ouzraoui (31st minute), Ait El Haj (52nd minute, penalty) for the Atlas Lionesses // Kgatlana (67th minute) for Banyana Banyana
Morocco secured their semifinal berth at the Africa Cup of Nations after overcoming South Africa 2-1 in a tightly contested quarterfinal clash. The victory not only propelled the Atlas Lionesses into the last four but also marked their third consecutive semifinal appearance in the tournament. For South Africa, the loss ended a six-year unbeaten streak in quarterfinal stages under Desiree Ellis.
Atlas Lionesses withstand early pressure
The Moroccan side had entered the match as the tournament’s only team yet to concede a goal. Yet their defensive record faced an immediate challenge. Thembi Kgatlana tested Khadija Errmichi in the 14th minute, though the attempt was comfortably saved. The deadlock was finally broken by Sakina Ouzraoui, who capitalized on a pinpoint cross from Hanane Ait El Haj to fire a first-time volley past the South African goalkeeper (1-0, 31st minute).
The lead lasted just 18 minutes before South Africa nearly equalized, but Errmichi made a crucial intervention to deny Fikile Magama. The pressure intensified in the second half, and a dangerous foul by Magama on Ghizlane Chebbak awarded Morocco a penalty. Ait El Haj, already instrumental in the opening goal, made no mistake from the spot (2-0, 52nd minute).
South Africa pulled one back through Magama (2-1, 67th minute), but Morocco’s defense held firm under repeated attacking waves. The Atlas Lionesses held on to preserve their historic run, booking a place in the semifinals and securing qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
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