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Hosts Morocco defeated South Africa 2-1 on Saturday in the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) quarter-finals, booking their place in the semi-finals and securing qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
This is the second time Morocco would qualify for the World Cup after making their first appearance in 2023 co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand.
Morocco took the lead before Hanan Ait El Haj doubled Morocco’s advantage from the penalty spot in the 51st minute.
South Africa responded through Thembi Kgatlana, who scored in the 67th minute to reduce the deficit and give her team hope of a comeback.
Morocco, however, held on to their 2-1 advantage until the final whistle to secure a crucial victory and advance to the last four.
Also Read: WAFCON 2026: ‘We’ll Give Everything’ — Madugu Talks Tough Ahead Cameroon Clash
The last time the two teams met in the WAFCON was in the final in 2022 which South Africa won 2-1.
In the first quarterfinal game also played on Saturday, Algeria came from a goal down to beat Côte d’Ivoire 2-1.
Meanwhile, the quarterfinals will continue on Sunday with defending champions Nigeria’s Super Falcons facing Cameroon and Ghana will battle surprise team of the tournament Malawi.
By James Agberebi
