Chebbak Leads Morocco Comeback

Morocco secured a commanding 4-2 win over DR Congo on Wednesday in a thrilling Group A clash of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. The result was essential for the tournament hosts, who were coming off a draw in their opening game against Zambia.

The match kicked off with a surprise as Merveille Kanjinga gave the Congolese an early lead in the 6th minute, finishing confidently after a sharp through ball from Naomie Kabakaba. But Morocco responded quickly and strongly. Star forward Ghizlane Chebbak netted twice before halftime — once in the 25th minute from inside the box and again at the 43rd with a close-range finish — putting the Atlas Lionesses 2-1 ahead at the break.

Mawete Scores, Morocco Close Strong

In the second half, DR Congo managed to equalize in the 70th minute through substitute Flavine Mawete, who blasted into the top corner after a clever assist from Marlène Kasaj. The joy didn’t last long, though, as Chebbak turned provider just five minutes later, setting up Imène El Ghazouani, whose cross came back to Chebbak for her third goal involvement of the evening — a precise finish to restore the lead.

The win was sealed in the 83rd minute when Anissa Lahmari won a penalty that Yasmin M'Rabet calmly converted into the bottom corner. Despite late efforts from Kabakaba, Mawete, and Esther Dikisha, the Morocco defense stayed composed, with goalkeeper Khadija Er-Rmichi standing firm in the final minutes.

With this result, Morocco continues to shine at WAFCON 2024, while DR Congo will aim to regroup and fight back in their next outing.