Morocco’s run to the final of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations ended in heartbreak, but midfielder Ghizlane Chebbak emerged as the tournament’s top scorer, a bright spot in a night filled with drama.
Chebbak led the hosts with passion and goals, helping them reach their first-ever WAFCON final on home soil. In the final clash, Morocco pushed Nigeria to the edge but fell just short, losing 3-2 in front of a packed stadium.
Chebbak opened the scoring in the 13th minute before teammate Sanaa Mssoudy doubled the lead in the 24th. Nigeria clawed back through an Esther Okoronkwo penalty and a clever finish by Folashade Ijamilusi, assisted by Okoronkwo.
With the match heading toward extra time, Jennifer Echegini broke Moroccan hearts with an 88th-minute winner, sealing Nigeria’s record-extending title.
Despite the loss, Morocco’s journey captivated fans, and Chebbak’s stellar form earned her the golden boot.
Meanwhile, Ghana secured third place after a tense penalty shootout win over South Africa, rounding off an entertaining tournament that celebrated the growing power of African women’s football.
