The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) has officially filed a complaint to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) over what it described as “refereeing injustices” during the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) final against Nigeria.
The FRMF took issue with a key moment in the 82nd minute of the tightly contested match, when the score was level at 2-2.
A potential handball by a Nigerian defender inside the penalty area was reviewed by VAR, but Namibian referee Antsino Twanyanyukwa opted not to award a penalty to the Atlas Lionesses — a decision that sparked outrage on the Moroccan bench and among players.
In its formal complaint, the FRMF argued that the decision significantly influenced the outcome of the final, which Nigeria went on to win 3-2, clinching a record-extending 10th WAFCON title.
Speaking after the match, Moroccan head coach Jorge Vilda expressed his frustration, saying: “It was a small detail that cost us the game,” in reference to the contentious penalty call. Vilda, typically reserved when discussing officiating, also acknowledged that fatigue contributed to Morocco’s second-half decline.
On the other side, Nigeria’s coach Justine Madugu lauded Morocco’s performance in the opening half and credited his team’s tactical response for the comeback victory.
“The players who came off the bench made the difference,” he noted. “Morocco have a promising future.”
The final, staged at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat, was Morocco’s second-ever appearance in a WAFCON final.
The North Africans led 2-1 at half-time, but Nigeria responded with a strong second-half display to seal the trophy.
Elsewhere, Ghana claimed third place after defeating South Africa on penalties in Casablanca.
Despite the heartbreaking loss, King Mohammed VI issued a message congratulating the Moroccan team for their fighting spirit and strong performances throughout the tournament.
The monarch also applauded the overall organisation of the event and the enthusiastic attendance across match venues.
