Morocco sealed their place in the knockout stage of the 2024 TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations with a gritty 1-0 victory over Senegal, thanks to a first-half penalty from Yasmin Mrabet.
Spurred on by an electric home crowd in Rabat, the Atlas Lionesses set the tone early with high-tempo play and slick combinations across midfield.
Their breakthrough came just before the interval when Ibtissam Jraïdi was brought down in the box by Senegalese goalkeeper Adji Ndiaye.
After a brief VAR consultation, the referee pointed to the spot and issued Ndiaye a yellow card.
Mrabet stepped up and calmly blasted the ball into the top corner, putting Morocco ahead and igniting celebrations in the stands.
Senegal Fight, Morocco Hold Firm
The second half saw Senegal respond with intensity. Forwards Nguenar Ndiaye and Korka Fall spearheaded the charge, forcing Moroccan keeper Khadija Er-Rmichi into a string of important saves.
But Morocco’s defense stood resolute. Anchored by the composed duo of Zineb Redouani and Nouhaila Benzina, the backline weathered the storm.
Tactical tweaks from coach Reynald Pedros helped blunt Senegal’s advances and preserve the narrow lead.
With the victory, Morocco topped their group and maintained their unbeaten run, strengthening hopes of a historic run deep into the tournament on home soil.