Marrakech, July 27, 2025 – The Europe Today: King Mohammed VI has extended heartfelt congratulations to the Moroccan women’s national football team following their impressive performance in the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), where they reached the final before narrowly losing 3–2 to reigning champions Nigeria.
In a message addressed to the team, the monarch praised their “brilliant journey” in the continental tournament, expressing that he followed their progress “with great pride.” Morocco, which hosted the WAFCON 2024 with “warm hospitality and excellent organization, worthy of the Kingdom and its guests,” witnessed a historic campaign by the Atlas Lionesses, who reached their second consecutive final.
The king lauded the squad’s “exemplary competitive spirit and high sense of patriotism,” as well as their “firm determination to cement Moroccan football’s strong presence on both continental and international levels.” His Majesty also commended the players, coaching staff, and all those who contributed to this achievement, reaffirming his continued “solicitude and benevolence” for their future endeavors.
The final, held at Rabat’s Olympic Stadium on Saturday evening, saw Morocco take an early lead through Ghizlane Chebbak in the 13th minute, followed by a second goal from Sanaa Mssoudy in the 24th minute. However, Nigeria mounted a stunning comeback in the second half with goals from Esther Okoronkwo (penalty, 64’), Folashade Florence Ijamilusi (71’), and a late winner by Jennifer Echegini (88’), securing Nigeria’s 10th WAFCON title in 13 editions.
Morocco had a strong campaign, topping Group A after a 2–2 draw with Zambia, a 4–2 win over DR Congo, and a 1–0 victory against Senegal. In the knockout stages, they overcame Mali 3–1 in the quarter-finals and edged Ghana 4–2 on penalties in the semi-finals after a 1–1 draw.
Led by head coach Jorge Vilda, former manager of the Spanish national team, the Atlas Lionesses exceeded expectations in a competition where Nigeria remained the overwhelming favorites.
A critical moment came in the second half when, with the score tied, Morocco was awarded a penalty for a handball in the Nigerian box. However, the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) controversially overturned the decision — a turning point that reportedly affected the team’s morale and preceded Nigeria’s decisive third goal.
Despite the defeat, Morocco’s resilience and tactical strength were widely praised, solidifying their position as a rising powerhouse in African women’s football.
