 got off to a dramatic start as hosts Morocco held a determined Zambia side to a 2-2 draw){kind=link}
The 2024 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) got off to a dramatic start as hosts Morocco held a determined Zambia side to a 2-2 draw in the opening match at the Rabat Olympic Stadium on Saturday night.
Zambia struck early and emphatically with the reigning Women’s African Footballer of the Year Barbara Banda finding the back of the net within the opening minute to stun the home crowd and punish Morocco’s sluggish defence.
The Copper Queens continued to press with intensity, but Morocco responded in the 12th minute when they were awarded a penalty, calmly converted by the striker Ibtissam Jraidi to level the score.
However, Zambia regained their lead midway through the first half thanks to a composed finish from Racheal Kundananji, who made it 2-1 in the 27th minute.
Morocco struggled to settle defensively but improved in the second half, pushing forward in search of an equaliser. Their perseverance paid off late in the game when veteran midfielder Ghizlane Chebbak delivered a moment of brilliance to level the score just before full-time, salvaging a crucial point for the Atlas Lionesses.
Match in Focus
The game showcased flashes of brilliance from both sides — Zambia’s pace and directness against Morocco’s composure and midfield craft. But the early defensive lapse from Morocco set the tone, with fans and pundits alike questioning their backline’s readiness.
Still, the North African side rallied well, and Chebbak’s leadership and late equaliser underlined why Morocco remain one of the tournament favourites.
Tournament Context
Morocco enters the tournament with high expectations, having finished runners-up in 2022 on home soil. Though they lost that final 2-1 to South Africa, their performance was widely praised and earned them a historic spot at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Zambia, meanwhile, are making their fourth WAFCON appearance and continue to prove they are no longer underdogs. After securing third place in 2022 with a dramatic win over Nigeria in the bronze medal match, the Copper Queens have emerged as one of the continent’s rising forces.
What’s Next?
Both teams will be looking to build on this result in their next group-stage fixtures against DR Congo and Senegal respectively. Morocco will be hoping for a sharper start and stronger defensive discipline, while Zambia can take confidence from their potent attack and early statement against the hosts.
The 2024 WAFCON promises to be a fiercely competitive tournament — and if this opener is anything to go by, fans are in for a thrilling ride.