Rabat, July 29, 2025 – The Europe Today: Moroccan football icon Ghizlane Chebbak has been awarded the Golden Boot at the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), in recognition of her exceptional performance throughout the tournament, which was hosted by Morocco from July 6 to 26.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) celebrated Chebbak’s achievement, highlighting her tally of five goals, which made her the tournament’s top scorer for a second consecutive edition—a remarkable feat that underscores her consistency and impact on the African football scene.
“Chebbak continues to lead by example, following in the footsteps of her father, Larbi Chebbak, a 1976 Africa Cup of Nations winner with Morocco,” CAF stated, lauding her leadership and influence on the pitch.
Among her standout performances was a clinical hat-trick against the Democratic Republic of Congo during the group stage, further affirming her status as a game-changer. In addition to securing the Golden Boot, Chebbak was also named in the tournament’s Best XI, alongside her teammate Ibtissam Jraidi.
Despite Chebbak’s individual triumph, the tournament ended in heartbreak for the Atlas Lionesses, who came agonizingly close to claiming their first-ever WAFCON title. Morocco led during the first half of the final, but a Nigerian equalizer shifted the momentum of the match. The turning point came in the second half when Morocco was denied a legitimate penalty, a decision that remained unchanged even after a VAR review.
Nigeria capitalized on the missed opportunity to score a decisive third goal, securing their tenth WAFCON title and dashing Morocco’s hopes of a historic victory on home soil.
In response to the controversial refereeing decisions, the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) has reportedly submitted a formal complaint to CAF, citing officiating irregularities that impacted the outcome of the final.
Despite the disappointment, head coach Jorge Vilda praised his players’ effort and resilience. “Small details cost us the game and the title,” he said, acknowledging that the overturned penalty “took the wind out of our sails.” However, he emphasized that the Atlas Lionesses had demonstrated their rightful place among Africa’s elite.
Chebbak’s continued excellence, both as a player and a role model, marks a new chapter in the rise of women’s football in Morocco, and her Golden Boot is a testament to the country’s growing presence on the continental stage.
