Morocco secured a place in the semi-finals of the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) by defeating South Africa in a quarter-final match played on August 8, 2026, in Rabat. The Atlas Lionesses won 2-1, avenging their loss to South Africa in the final of the 2022 edition.
The match saw Morocco take an early lead through a goal from Rosella Ayane in the 15th minute. South Africa equalized just before half-time with a strike from Thembi Kgatlana. The decisive goal came in the 72nd minute when Ibtissam Jraïdi headed in a cross from Hanane Ait El Haj.
Morocco's victory was met with celebrations across the country, as the team continues its impressive run in the tournament, which they are hosting. The semi-final will be played on August 13, 2026, against the winner of the quarter-final between Nigeria and Tunisia.
South Africa, the defending champions, were eliminated despite a strong performance. Their coach, Desiree Ellis, praised her team's effort but acknowledged Morocco's quality on the day.
