Morocco and Zambia Share Spoils in Thrilling WAFCON Opener
The 2024 TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) kicked off with an exhilarating encounter between hosts Morocco and Zambia, culminating in a 2-2 draw at the Stade Olympique on Saturday night.
Zambia stunned the home crowd right from the start, with Barbra Banda seizing an opportunity just inside the opening minute. Capitalizing on space outside the box, Banda unleashed a powerful low shot into the bottom left corner, giving Zambia a dream start.
Morocco quickly regrouped and began to apply pressure. Their efforts paid off in the 12th minute when Najat Badri was fouled by Grace Chanda in the penalty area. After a brief VAR review, the referee awarded a penalty, which Ibtissam Jraïdi converted with a composed strike into the top left corner, leveling the scores.
However, Zambia responded aggressively, and in the 27th minute, Banda turned provider. Her perfectly timed through ball found Racheal Kundananji, who coolly finished past Moroccan goalkeeper Khadija Er-Rmichi to restore Zambia’s lead.
The first half ended 2-1 in favor of Zambia, with the visitors appearing more clinical. Morocco, despite creating several chances, struggled with finishing, particularly from players Fatima Tagnaout and Ghizlane Chebbak.
The second half saw Morocco gradually take control, dominating possession and intensifying their offensive efforts. They came close multiple times, including a powerful shot from Sanaâ Mssoudy, which was saved at full stretch by Zambian goalkeeper Ng’ambo Musole.
With time running out, Morocco finally found the breakthrough in the 87th minute. Ghizlane Chebbak picked up the ball outside the box and unleashed a stunning strike into the top corner, leveling the match at 2-2 and igniting wild celebrations among the home fans.
Despite both teams pushing for a late winner, the match ended in a draw, a fair reflection of the balance of play. This result marks the first time since 2004 that a WAFCON host has failed to win their opening match, breaking an eight-edition streak.
Both Morocco and Zambia will now turn their attention to their remaining Group A fixtures, with everything still to play for.
