Morocco secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Senegal in their final Group A game at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, guaranteeing their spot in the quarter-finals.
The breakthrough came just before halftime when Senegalese goalkeeper Adji Ndiaye was penalised for striking Moroccan striker Ibtissam Jraïdi in the face during a corner.
After a VAR review, a penalty was awarded and Yasmin Mrabet converted calmly from the spot, sending the home fans into celebration. Senegal offered little threat going forward and struggled to create any real chances in the second half.
Morocco, despite not adding to their lead, managed the game well and preserved their slender advantage until the final whistle.
In the other Group A fixture, Zambia edged DR Congo 1-0 to also book their place in the last eight. Star forward Rachael Kundananji put Zambia ahead in the 9th minute with a well-taken free kick and became the first Zambian player to score in three consecutive WAFCON games.
DR Congo’s evening worsened in the 69th minute when Falonne Pambani received a straight red card after a reckless challenge on Ireen Lungu, confirmed by VAR.
Despite their numerical advantage, Zambia couldn’t add to their tally but comfortably saw out the game to finish level on points with Morocco, only missing out on top spot due to goal difference.
DR Congo finished the group with three defeats and no points, while Senegal’s fate now depends on how results unfold in the other groups to determine if they qualify as one of the best third-placed teams.
