WAFCON 2024: Mrabet’s Spot-Kick Sends Morocco Into Knockout Stage With Narrow Win Over Senegal

WAFCON 2024: Mrabet’s Spot-Kick Sends Morocco Into Knockout Stage With Narrow Win Over Senegal

Sampson Adedeji

A first-half penalty from Yasmin Mrabet proved decisive as Morocco edged Senegal 1-0 in their final Group A match to seal a place in the knockout stage of the 2024 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Backed by a vibrant home crowd in Rabat, the Atlas Lionesses dominated early proceedings with slick passing and aggressive play down the flanks. Their persistence paid off late in the first half when forward Ibtissam Jraïdi was fouled in the box by Senegalese goalkeeper Adji Ndiaye.

Following a VAR review, the referee awarded a penalty and booked Ndiaye for the challenge. Mrabet confidently converted, smashing her shot into the top corner to give Morocco a vital lead heading into the break.

Senegal responded with urgency after the restart, pushing forward through Nguenar Ndiaye and Korka Fall. But Morocco’s goalkeeper Khadija Er-Rmichi delivered a standout performance, making a string of crucial saves to preserve her side’s lead.

At the back, Zineb Redouani and Nouhaila Benzina anchored a disciplined Moroccan defense, repelling wave after wave of Senegalese attacks. Tactical substitutions from head coach Reynald Pedros further bolstered their resistance.

With the win, Morocco finish top of their group and advance confidently into the knockout rounds, maintaining their unbeaten run in the tournament on home turf.