Morocco clinches semi-final spot with South Africa upset
Morocco 2-1 South Africa
Goals: Ouzraoui (31st), Ait El Haj (52nd, penalty) for the Atlas Lionesses // Kgatlana (67th) for Banyana Banyana
The Atlas Lionesses secured their place in the semi-finals with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over South Africa. This win marked a historic moment for both teams—the Moroccan side clinched a spot in the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, while South Africa suffered their first quarter-final exit since Desiree Ellis took charge in 2016. The match also served as redemption for Morocco, who defeated South Africa in the 2022 final.
Morocco’s defense cracks under pressure
Entering the match, Morocco had conceded zero goals throughout the tournament, a remarkable streak they aimed to preserve. Yet, the game began sluggishly, with the first significant opportunity arriving in the 14th minute when Thembi Kgatlana’s shot was parried away by Khadija Errmichi. The deadlock was finally broken by Sakina Ouzraoui, who capitalized on a cross from Hanane Ait El Haj with a stunning volley (1-0, 32nd minute).
Morocco held a narrow lead at halftime, but it quickly expanded in the second half. Fikile Magama’s reckless challenge in the box on Ghizlane Chebbak presented an ideal chance, which Ait El Haj converted with composure, adding to her earlier assist (2-0, 52nd minute). Despite South Africa’s late consolation goal by Magama (2-1, 67th minute), the Atlas Lionesses’ defense held firm under relentless pressure, sealing their historic win.
Their journey continues in the semi-finals.
Morocco (4-2-3-1): Errmichi – Ait El Haj, Atiq, Benzina, Redouani – Mrabet, Nakkach – Ouzraoui (Saoud, 90+3′), Chebbak (Badri, 57′), Tagnaout (Jraidi, 74′) – Mssoudy. Head Coach: Jorge Vilda.
South Africa (4-3-3): Swart – Magama, Mbane, Gamede, Dhlamini – Motau (Moodaly, 58′), Jane, Molthalo (Donnelly, 84′) – Cesane (Ramalepe, 73′), Kgatlana, Magaia. Head Coach: Desiree Ellis.
