Morocco ‘without fear’ ahead of South Africa quarter-final – Jorge Vilda

Morocco coach Jorge Vilda says the Atlas Lionesses are ready for their toughest challenge yet at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations as they prepare to face South Africa in a quarter-final that could secure a place at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Victory in Saturday’s last-eight encounter in Rabat would send the hosts into the semi-finals and guarantee automatic qualification for the tournament in Brazil.

Speaking ahead of the match on Friday, Vilda said his players are full of confidence and determined to continue their impressive run on home soil.

“We have a great desire to win and a lot of confidence,” Vilda said during his pre-match press conference.

He added, “We want Morocco to qualify directly for the World Cup for the second time in its history, and we hope to achieve that tomorrow.”

Vilda expects close contest

The Spanish coach acknowledged the threat posed by South Africa, describing the defending champions as a disciplined side with dangerous attacking players.

However, Vilda insisted Morocco will approach the contest without fear and believes the outcome will be decided by fine margins.

“I think it will be a balanced match decided by details, and I hope those details go in our favour,” he said. “In the past, people viewed South Africa differently. Now we face them without fear.”

The quarter-final is expected to be one of the standout fixtures of the tournament, with both nations aiming to book their place in the final four.

Coach dismisses attacking concerns

Morocco head into the knockout stages after a goalless draw against Senegal in their final group match, a result that raised questions about the team’s finishing.

But Vilda played down concerns over his side’s attacking form, pointing to the number of opportunities his players created despite failing to score.

The coach remains confident that the Atlas Lionesses will rediscover their scoring touch when it matters most.

Defensive strength key for hosts

One of Morocco’s biggest positives so far has been their defensive record, with the hosts completing the group stage without conceding a goal.

Vilda praised the collective effort behind that achievement, insisting the clean-sheet record is not solely down to goalkeeper Khadija Er-Rmichi.

The coach said Morocco’s defensive solidity has been built on teamwork and discipline throughout the tournament.

Call for fans to rally behind Morocco

With a place in the World Cup and the WAFCON semi-finals at stake, Vilda urged supporters to create another memorable atmosphere in Rabat.

“We need the fans in this match,” he said. “We need all Moroccans behind the team, whether they are in the stadium or watching on television. I am convinced we can achieve this together, and I hope the players hear the roar of the crowd louder than ever.”

Morocco reached the final of the previous edition on home soil and will now hope home support can inspire them to another historic achievement against South Africa.