Jorge Vilda has named his final 26-player squad for the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), as Morocco prepare to host the continental tournament from 5 to 26 July.
The Spanish head coach, who took charge of the Atlas Lionesses in late 2023, has selected a blend of experience and promising young talent as the team looks to make a deep run on home soil.
The list includes established figures such as team captain Ghizlane Chebbak and standout goalkeeper Khadija Errmichi, alongside several players making their tournament debuts.
Vilda’s goalkeeping options include four selections: Khadija Errmichi, a regular starter and one of the most experienced players in the squad; Ines Arouaissa; Fatima Ezzahra El Jabraoui; and Hind Hasnaoui.
This depth between the posts reflects the coach’s desire for competition and reliability throughout the tournament.
In defence, Morocco will count on the likes of Hanae Ait Elhaj and Zineb Redouani to bring stability and composure to the back line.
They are joined by Sabah Seghir, Nouhaila Benzina, Siham Boukhami, and dual-nationality player Yasmine Katie Mrabet, who continues to play an important role in the team’s tactical setup.
Completing the defensive list is Soumia Hady, adding depth and versatility to Vilda’s back four.
The midfield is anchored by veteran Ghizlane Chebbak, who brings leadership and creativity. She is joined by Najat Badri and Élodie Nahla Nakkach, both of whom have been instrumental in Morocco’s midfield structure in recent competitions.
Young talents such as Salma Bouguerch and Anissa Lahmari offer energy and vision, while Sarah Kassi and Irène El Ghaouani bring European experience. Sanaa Mssoudy rounds out the midfield unit, providing balance and control.
In the attacking department, Vilda has selected a dynamic group capable of unlocking defences. Fatima Tagnaout, one of Morocco’s most technical players, will be central to the team’s offensive output.
She is joined by Sakina Ouzraoui Diki, who continues to impress with her pace and dribbling. The attack also features Imane Saoud and Ibtissam Jraïdi, both capable of playing across the front line.
Rising stars Kenza Chapelle and Rania Boutiebi complete the selection, offering fresh options and depth off the bench.
This squad announcement comes amid growing anticipation in Morocco, with the nation hosting the Women’s AFCON for the second consecutive edition.
Expectations are high following the team’s historic run to the final in 2022, where they fell narrowly short against South Africa.
Jorge Vilda, known for his tactical discipline and experience on the international stage, will be looking to guide the Atlas Lionesses to a first-ever continental title.
With strong home support and a carefully assembled squad, Morocco head into the tournament as one of the favourites.
The Atlas Lionesses will begin their campaign on 5 July, with group stage opponents and match venues to be confirmed by CAF in the coming days.
