The 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) reaches its penultimate phase this Tuesday, with Morocco taking on Ghana in Rabat and Nigeria clashing with South Africa in Casablanca.
As the final four square off, a blend of ambition, talent, and national pride sets the stage for two blockbuster semi-finals.
Morocco v Ghana: Contrast in approach, unity in purpose
Morocco’s march through the tournament has been backed by fervent home support and a potent attacking arsenal.
Under Jorge Vilda’s guidance, the Atlas Lionesses have netted 10 goals in four matches, with Ibtissam Jraidi emerging as a standout performer.
Her three-goal haul thus far, supported by the creativity of Ghizlane Chebbak and the energy of Sakina Ouzraoui, has powered Morocco into contention for their first title.
Their 3-1 quarter-final win over Mali was as much a display of flair as it was of composure, with Morocco dominating both territory and tempo.
The hosts now carry the hopes of a nation eager to see their women’s team reach the summit of African football.
Ghana, however, are determined to disrupt that dream.
The Black Queens survived a gruelling quarter-final against Algeria, eventually triumphing 4-2 on penalties after a goalless draw.
Goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan was the hero, delivering a commanding performance in the shootout.
Driven by a sense of mission, Ghana’s squad—featuring standout talents such as Alice Kusi and Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah—has combined youthful ambition with tactical grit.
After a 16-year absence from the final, the Ghanaians are desperate to write a new chapter in their history.
Nigeria v South Africa: Titans collide in Casablanca
In what many are calling the tournament’s true final, Nigeria and South Africa will meet in a titanic clash in Casablanca.
Nigeria, nine-time continental champions, have sailed through the competition in dominant fashion.
A 5-0 demolition of Zambia in the quarter-finals underscored their quality, with the Super Falcons yet to concede a goal.
Michelle Alozie, Rasheedat Ajibade, and Esther Okoronkwo have led a side that boasts both experience and cutting edge.
“We know what this match represents and we are ready,” Ajibade said ahead of the showdown.
South Africa, meanwhile, have shown steel as defending champions.
After edging Senegal on penalties (0-0, 4-1), coach Désiree Ellis is counting on her players’ unity and resilience.
With match-winners like Hildah Magaia and Jermaine Seoposenwe, Banyana Banyana are well-equipped for the high-stakes encounter.
A word on Algeria
For Algeria, their AFCON journey concluded in heartbreak after falling to Ghana on penalties.
Yet, the campaign was not without positives. Farid Benstiti’s side exit the tournament with valuable experience and clear signs of progress.
As the semi-finals unfold, only two nations will advance.
For now, the dream of continental glory burns equally bright for all four.
