Morocco beats South Africa 2-1 to reach WAFCON semifinals, qualify for 2027 World Cup

Host nation Morocco defeated defending champions South Africa 2-1 in a dramatic quarterfinal on Saturday, August 8, 2026, securing a place in the semifinals of the 2026 TotalEnergies CAF Women's Africa Cup of Nations and automatically qualifying for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil. The victory at the Stade Moulay El Hassan in Rabat sets up a semifinal clash with Nigeria on Wednesday, August 12.

Morocco took control of the match in the 31st minute when forward Sakina Ouzraoui scored with a first-time finish after being set up by Hanane Aït El Haj. The hosts doubled their lead in the 52nd minute after being awarded a penalty for a foul on Ghizlane Chebbak. Aït El Haj converted the spot kick to make it 2-0.

South Africa, the 2022 champions, fought back through star forward Thembi Kgatlana. She pulled a goal back in the 67th minute with a powerful strike from the left side, a goal that was awarded following a video review after she was initially ruled offside. Despite sustained late pressure from Banyana Banyana, the Moroccan defense held firm to preserve the narrow lead.

The result guarantees Morocco's second Women's World Cup appearance, following their debut in 2023. The...