In a nail-biting encounter at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat, Morocco emerged victorious over Ghana in a penalty shootout to advance to the final of the 2024 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon). The match ended 1-1 after regular play and extra time, but Morocco's flawless penalty execution sealed their win.

First Half Dominance by Ghana Ghana's Black Queens started strong, controlling the first half and taking the lead in the 26th minute with a goal from Stella Nyamekye. Their aggressive play and solid defense kept Morocco at bay, showcasing their determination to reach the final.

Morocco's Second Half Resurgence The second half saw a revitalized Moroccan team. Winger Sakina Ouzraoui equalized in the 55th minute, shifting the momentum. Morocco's increased pressure and strategic play kept Ghana on the defensive, but neither team could break the deadlock in extra time.

Penalty Shootout Drama The penalty shootout was a test of nerves. Ghana's Evelyn Badu missed her spot-kick, and 18-year-old Comfort Yeboah's attempt was saved by Morocco's goalkeeper Khadija Er-Rmichi. Morocco capitalized on their opportunities, scoring all four penalties to secure a 4-2 victory.

Looking Ahead to the Final With this win, Morocco will face Nigeria in the final, aiming to claim their first Wafcon title. Nigeria, seeking a record-extending 10th championship, will be a formidable opponent. The final promises to be an exciting clash of two of Africa's top women's football teams.

Key Players

• Sakina Ouzraoui: Scored the crucial equalizer for Morocco.
• Khadija Er-Rmichi: Made the decisive save in the penalty shootout.
• Stella Nyamekye: Gave Ghana the lead with her first-half goal.

Conclusion Morocco's journey to the final has been marked by resilience and skill. Their ability to perform under pressure, especially in the penalty shootout, highlights their readiness to compete for the Wafcon title. The final against Nigeria is set to be a historic match, with both teams eager to etch their names in the annals of African women's football.