Morocco – Atlas Lionesses Roaring on Home Soil (2024 WAFCON)

Emmanuel Oladele Thursday, July 17, 2025

Morocco’s Atlas Lionesses as they head into the WAFCON 2024 quarter-final:

Morocco enters its fourth WAFCON appearance (1998, 2000, 2022, 2024) as the reigning runners-up and hosts of this year’s tournament. After their historic final run in 2022 and progressing to the Round of 16 at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, the Atlas Lionesses are aiming to climb one step higher this year. Under Spanish coach Jorge Vilda—appointed in October 2023—they benefit from modern tactics informed by a World Cup-winning pedigree.

Group Stage Poise & Momentum

2–2 draw vs Zambia: Morocco kicked off with a thrilling opener against Zambia. Barbra Banda struck early, but Morocco responded through Racheal Kundananji. Captain Ghizlane Chebbak then equalized in the 87th minute, salvaging a point on home soil.
1–0 win vs Senegal: Yasmin M’Rabet calmly converted a penalty just before halftime to secure top spot in Group A, thanks to vigilant VAR assistance and steadfast defending from Khadija Er-Rmichi.
4–2 victory over DR Congo: Morocco showcased their firepower as Ghizlane Chebbak grabbed a brace and an assist, with M’Rabet sealing the outcome with a late penalty .

This unbeaten run (W‑W‑D) secured 7 points and a first-place finish in Group A, setting the tone for a confident quarter-final charge.

Lineup & Leaders to Watch

Ghizlane Chebbak (Captain, Forward): Tournament icon, leading scorer in 2022, WAFCON 2024 hat-trick hero vs DR Congo in group stage.
Yasmin M’Rabet (Midfielder/penalty specialist): Reliable from the spot, scored winning penalties vs Senegal, DR Congo.
Fatima Tagnaout (Winger): Domestic standout known for incisive dribbling and crosses, central to attack build-up.
Khadija Er-Rmichi (Goalkeeper): Anchoring the backline, delivered key saves, including in the win over Senegal.
Zineb Redouani (Defender): Experienced AS FAR leader anchoring defense, diffused threats with composure.

Tactical Overview

Vilda’s side thrives in disciplined structure and home-pressure management. They demonstrate:

Strong wing play and midfield control
Set-piece proficiency from veterans like Chebbak and Tagnaout
Solid defense that resists unrelenting attacks under stadium pressure.

They’ve shown adaptability—bouncing back from early setbacks to dominate later matches.

Quarter-Final Clashes & What’s Ahead

Morocco vs Mali | Friday, July 18 | Stade Olympique, Rabat
Boasting home advantage, tactical maturity, and player depth, Morocco are favorites—but Mali’s grit and structure ensure this will be no easy ride.

Why Morocco Can Go All the Way

Host Advantage: Vocal crowds, familiar venues, and confidence from past successes.
Talented Core: Veterans and role models blend with rising stars.
Defensive Solidity: Strong foundation with clean sheets and calm composure.
Tactical Leadership: Vilda’s UEFA-winning insights bring edge and discipline.

If they keep harnessing momentum and tactical cohesion, Morocco have every chance to reach and perhaps win their first WAFCON title.