South Africa draw on past final win as Morocco showdown looms

Desiree Ellis has reminded Morocco of South Africa’s victory in the 2022 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations final before the teams meet in Saturday’s quarter-final, with a place in the last four and direct qualification for the 2027 Women’s World Cup at stake.

“History has shown that we can beat Morocco,” said South Africa’s coach after her side secured their place in the knockout stage.

Ellis was referring to the previous final, which was also held in Morocco. South Africa beat the hosts 2-1 at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex in Rabat, denying the Atlas Lionesses a first continental title.

That result remains a significant reference point ahead of the latest meeting between the two sides, although Ellis has made clear that South Africa cannot rely solely on what happened four years ago.

Morocco enter the quarter-final with the stronger recent record in this tournament. Jorge Vilda’s team finished top of Group A with seven points after victories over Kenya and Algeria, followed by a goalless draw with Senegal.

The hosts began their campaign with a 4-0 win against Kenya and then defeated Algeria 1-0 before drawing 0-0 with Senegal. They did not concede a goal during the group stage, giving them a firm defensive platform before facing the 2022 champions.

South Africa’s route to the knockout phase was considerably more difficult. The Banyana Banyana lost 2-1 to Tanzania in their opening match and then drew 2-2 with Cote d’Ivoire.

They eventually secured qualification with a narrow 1-0 victory over Burkina Faso, leaving them with a more challenging record than their quarter-final opponents but still in contention for another title.

The match brings together two of the best-organised nations in African women’s football. Morocco have invested heavily in infrastructure, their national teams and domestic competition, while South Africa have a longer-established tradition and greater experience at the highest level of the continental game.

That contrast adds further interest to a fixture which already carries the weight of the 2022 final. Morocco have the opportunity to avenge that defeat on home soil, while South Africa will attempt to confirm that their previous success was not an isolated result.

The winner will advance to the semi-finals and qualify directly for the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil. For Morocco, progressing would also strengthen the argument that the balance of power in African women’s football has shifted since South Africa lifted the continental trophy in 2022.

For South Africa, victory would provide another statement result against the hosts and keep their defence of the title on course. Their difficult group-stage campaign means they must now overcome a Morocco side that has yet to concede in the competition.

The quarter-final will therefore decide both the next team to reach the final four and one of Africa’s direct places at the World Cup in Brazil.