Morocco secured a dramatic 4-2 victory over Congo DR in a thrilling Group A encounter of the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2024 on Wednesday evening.
The brilliant display was much needed for the hosts who drew with Zambia in their opening match earlier in the week.
The match sparked to life early as DR Congo stunned the home favourites with a rapid opener in the 6th minute through Merveille Kanjinga, who finished confidently after a well-weighted through ball from Naomie Kabakaba.
Morocco responded with authority and precision. Star forward Ghizlane Chebbak struck twice before the break — first in the 25th minute with a composed finish inside the box and again in the 43rd minute from close range — giving the Atlas Lionesses a deserved 2-1 lead at halftime.
The second half brought more drama as both sides pressed for goals. DR Congo levelled in the 70th minute when substitute Flavine Mawete fired into the top corner following a clever assist from Marlène Kasaj, reigniting hopes for the central Africans.
But Morocco would not be denied. Chebbak turned provider just five minutes later, setting up Imène El Ghazouani, whose cross found Chebbak again for her third goal contribution — a clinical strike that restored Morocco’s lead at 3-2.
The Atlas Lionesses sealed the win in the 83rd minute after Anissa Lahmari won a penalty, which was confidently converted by Yasmin M’Rabet into the bottom corner.
Despite late attempts from DR Congo, including efforts from Kabakaba, Mawete, and Esther Dikisha, the Moroccan defence held firm with goalkeeper Khadija Er-Rmichi staying alert when called upon.
With this result, Morocco continues its strong WAFCON 2024 campaign with another convincing performance, while DR Congo will look to bounce back in their next outing after showing glimpses of attacking promise.
CAF
