Morocco delivered a statement victory at the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations, defeating South Africa 2-1 in the quarterfinals and eliminating the defending African champions.

The hosts started strongly and opened the scoring in the 31st minute when Sakina Ouzraoui produced an excellent volley inside the box to give Morocco a 1-0 lead.

Morocco continued to control much of the match and doubled its advantage shortly after halftime. In the 51st minute, the referee awarded a penalty to the hosts, and Ibtissam Jraïdi calmly converted from the spot to make it 2-0.

South Africa responded and pulled one goal back in the 67th minute. Star forward Thembi Kgatlana made a powerful run down the left side, beat her defender and fired an unstoppable shot past the Moroccan goalkeeper.

The defending champions pushed forward during the final stages, creating danger with repeated crosses and attacks, but Morocco's defense held firm until the final whistle.

The victory sends Morocco into the WAFCON 2026 semifinals and also guarantees the hosts a direct place at the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil.

The result was particularly significant because it gave Morocco revenge for the 2022 WAFCON final, when South Africa defeated the hosts 2-1 to win their first African title.

Morocco will return to action in the semifinals on Wednesday, August 12, in Rabat. Their opponent will be the winner of the quarterfinal between Nigeria and Cameroon.

Random fact: Morocco became the first team in the tournament to secure direct qualification for the 2027 Women's World Cup by reaching the semifinals.

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