The semi-final clash of the 2024 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) between host nation Morocco and the formidable Ghanaian Black Queens promises a captivating spectacle of football prowess and unyielding determination. Set against the backdrop of the Stade Olympique in Rabat on Tuesday, July 22nd, this encounter carries immense weight for both nations, each harboring aspirations of securing a spot in the coveted final and, ultimately, claiming their maiden WAFCON title. The match represents a collision of contrasting narratives: Morocco, riding high on home advantage and fueled by a recent surge in women’s football, seeks to consolidate its status as a continental powerhouse, while Ghana, a team steeped in footballing history and tradition, aims to rekindle its past glory and establish itself once again as a dominant force in African women’s football.
Morocco’s journey to the semi-finals has been marked by a display of attacking flair and defensive solidity. Topping Group A with two victories and a draw, the Atlas Lionesses have exhibited an impressive goal-scoring prowess, netting ten times – more than any other team in the tournament. Their emphatic 3-1 quarter-final triumph over Mali, punctuated by a brace from Ibtissam Jraïdi and a late strike from Kenza Chapelle, served as a testament to their offensive firepower. Captain Ghizlane Chebbak, currently joint-top scorer with four goals, has emerged as a key figure, orchestrating attacks and inspiring her teammates with her leadership and skill. The Moroccan team’s performance thus far has been characterized by a blend of tactical discipline, individual brilliance, and an unwavering belief in their ability to conquer the continental stage.
Ghana’s path to the semi-finals has been a more arduous one, marked by both setbacks and triumphs. Their campaign commenced with a 2-0 defeat against South Africa, a result that cast a shadow of doubt over their prospects. A subsequent 1-1 draw against Mali further complicated their situation, leaving them with a mountain to climb to secure qualification for the knockout stages. However, the Black Queens displayed resilience and determination, bouncing back with a resounding 4-1 victory over Tanzania, a performance that injected renewed confidence and belief into the squad. Their quarter-final encounter against Algeria, a tense affair that remained goalless after regulation time, showcased their defensive resolve and mental fortitude. Goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan emerged as the hero, making two crucial saves in the penalty shootout to propel her team into the semi-finals.
The historical record between these two nations adds another layer of intrigue to this semi-final showdown. The teams have clashed five times previously, with all encounters being friendly matches. Morocco holds a slight edge in the head-to-head record, boasting three victories to Ghana’s two. Their most recent meeting, a friendly fixture in February 2025, resulted in a narrow 1-0 victory for Morocco. While past results offer some insight into the relative strengths of the two teams, they provide no guarantee of future outcomes. The semi-final clash will be played under vastly different circumstances, with the pressure of a major tournament and the fervent support of the home crowd adding to the intensity and drama of the occasion.
For Ghana, reaching the semi-finals represents a significant achievement, marking their return to this stage of the competition for the first time since 2016. It also signifies a renewed opportunity to reach the WAFCON final, a feat they last accomplished nearly two decades ago. The Black Queens will be determined to seize this moment and etch their names once more into the annals of African football history. Their journey through the tournament, characterized by resilience and an unwavering fighting spirit, has demonstrated their capacity to overcome adversity and emerge stronger.
Morocco, as runners-up in the 2022 edition of WAFCON, enter this semi-final with a burning desire to go one step further and claim the coveted trophy on home soil. The Atlas Lionesses have captivated the nation with their scintillating performances, and the prospect of lifting the trophy in front of their adoring fans will serve as an added source of motivation. The team’s attacking prowess, coupled with their defensive stability, makes them a formidable force to be reckoned with. The stage is set for a thrilling encounter, a clash of titans that will determine which nation progresses to the final and keeps alive its dream of WAFCON glory.
