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Morocco Power Past Mali 3–1 to Reach WAFCON Semi‑Finals

 



Venue: Rabat Olympic Stadium
Date: Friday, July 18, 2025

Morocco’s Atlas Lionesses put on a dominant display as they beat Mali 3–1 to progress to the semi-finals of the WAFCON 2024. Led by a sensational brace from Ibtissam Jraïdi, hosts Morocco delivered a performance that thrilled the home crowd and kept their title hopes alive.


Match Highlights

Early Breakthrough

  • In just the 7th minute, Jraïdi slotted home after a precise through ball from Sakina Ouzraoui, giving Morocco an early lead that set the tone.

Second-Half Control

  • 79′ – Jraïdi calmly converted a penalty after Sanaa Mssoudy was fouled inside the box, doubling her goal tally and Morocco’s lead.

  • 89′ – Kenza Chapelle added a third, capitalizing on a goalkeeper error by Mali in what proved to be the final blow.

Late Consolation

  • 90+7′ – Aïssata Traoré netted a late penalty for Mali, but it was merely a consolation after Morocco had sealed the result.


Tactical Analysis

Morocco controlled much of the game with slick passing, wide attacking threats, and pressing discipline throughout. Mali showed resolve, particularly in the second half, but ultimately lacked the cutting edge to mount a real comeback. Host goalkeeper Khadija Er-Rmichi was rarely troubled and helped maintain defensive composure.

Morocco head coach Jorge Vilda orchestrated effective halftime substitutions—bringing in Élodie Nakkach and Sanaâ Mssoudy—which helped maintain intensity and defensive structure in the second half .


What’s Next?

With this victory, Morocco joins Nigeria in the semi-finals, where they will take on the winner of Ghana vs Algeria in a showdown scheduled in Rabat.


Final Thoughts

Morocco’s emphatic win was a statement—combining attacking flair, home support, and disciplined organization. With Jraïdi in top form and momentum firmly on their side, the hosts are shaping up as serious contenders for their first-ever WAFCON title.


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