Ghizlane Chebbak, captain of Morocco’s women’s national football team, says she draws strength from the memory of her late father, former Moroccan international Larbi Chebbak, every time she steps onto the pitch.
“I think of him every game. He would have been so proud to see what we accomplished. I play for him, for his memory and to honor the honour I carry,” said the midfielder, whose calm presence and technical intelligence have made her a pillar of the Atlas Lionesses.
Larbi Chebbak, who passed away in 2020, was part of the Moroccan side that lifted the Africa Cup of Nations in 1976.
His footballing legacy lives on through his daughter, who has emerged as one of the leading figures in the women’s game in Morocco.
Ghizlane has never shied away from acknowledging the influence her father had on her career, often dedicating her performances and accolades to his memory.
That sentiment was powerfully evident during the 2022 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, where Chebbak led Morocco to a historic final on home soil.
Though the team fell narrowly to South Africa in Rabat, her exceptional performances throughout the tournament earned her the award for best player.
As she received her trophy, Chebbak looked skyward, whispering a heartfelt dedication. “This is for you, Dad,” she later revealed.
Her deep emotional connection to the game and her personal journey has resonated widely, making her a symbol of determination and pride in Moroccan football.
With sharp vision, poised ball control, and tactical maturity, Chebbak has often drawn comparisons to her father, both for her influence on the pitch and the grace with which she leads.
Morocco now prepares for another chapter in its evolving women’s football story, set to begin their Women’s AFCON 2025 campaign against Zambia on July 5.
The #TotalEnergiesWAFCON2024 is taking over your July. 🤩
Circle the dates. It’s our time. 🗓 pic.twitter.com/hlS2cY3yMW
— CAF Women’s Football (@CAFwomen) July 1, 2025
After coming so close to continental glory two years ago, the Atlas Lionesses are more determined than ever to go one step further.
For Ghizlane Chebbak, this new journey is not only about titles or records.
It is a continuation of a family legacy that began decades ago, a tribute in every touch of the ball, every pass, every goal — to a father whose passion for the game lives on through his daughter.
