Morocco Clinches Quarter-Final Spot in Women’s AFCON with Dramatic 1-0 Win Over Senegal

This match was a decisive issue for both teams. Morocco needed at least a draw to ensure they finished top of Group A and, consequently, continue to play their matches in Rabat. For Senegal, a positive result was imperative to maintain their hopes of qualifying for the next stage of the competition.

The first half was characterized by a balance of power, where the defences and goalkeepers took precedence over the attacks. Attempts from both sides were thwarted either by the interventions of the goalkeepers, Khadija Rmichi for Morocco and Adji Ndiaye for Senegal, or by a lack of precision in the final pass or shot when approaching the penalty area. The decision was finally made in stoppage time on a set piece. Yasmin Mrabet converted a penalty, allowing Morocco to lead 1-0 at half-time.

In the second half, the pattern of the match was dictated by the score. Senegal tried to increase the pressure to obtain the equalizer, while Morocco sought to score a second goal to consolidate their advantage. However, neither team was able to capitalize on their chances, once again being thwarted by the performance of the two goalkeepers. The Senegalese attacks lacked efficiency against an organized Moroccan defence and a vigilant goalkeeper.

The play in the final minutes was affected by technical inaccuracies, including numerous turnovers, insufficient coordination between the lines, and recurring haste in the final gesture. These elements prevented any change in the scoreline. The match therefore ended with a 1-0 result, formalizing Morocco’s qualification and first place in Group A.