Resounding Qualification: Atlas Lionesses Advance to Women’s AFCON Semi-Finals
It was a triumphant and historic evening for the Atlas Lionesses, as Morocco’s women’s national football team secured their place in the semi-finals of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with a commanding 3-1 win over a spirited Mali side at Rabat’s Olympic Stadium.
Backed by a roaring home crowd, Reynald Pedros’ squad delivered a disciplined and determined performance. Star forward Ibtissam Jraidi led the charge with an impressive brace, scoring in the 7th minute and again in the 79th from the penalty spot, further cementing her status as one of Africa’s top footballers. Kenza Chapelle added a third goal with a clean strike in the 89th minute, just before Mali managed to pull one back from the penalty spot deep into stoppage time (90+7).
More than just a victory, this performance marks a bold statement from the Moroccan women’s team, signaling their continued rise on the continental stage. The Atlas Lionesses are proving that Morocco is now a powerhouse in women’s football, driven by a talented and ambitious generation and buoyed by rare levels of popular support.
The journey is far from over. Morocco will face the winner of Saturday’s clash between Ghana and Algeria in the semi-finals, set to take place in Berkane. But one thing is clear: the Atlas Lionesses have shown they have the heart, skill, and teamwork to dream even bigger.
Editorial team/le7tv
