WAFCON Quarter Finals: Morocco and Zambia Advance After VAR Drama

WAFCON quarter finals drama lit up the group stages as Morocco and Zambia secured their spots in the last eight of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). Morocco led Group A following a narrow 1-0 win over Senegal, thanks to a coolly taken penalty by Yasmin Mrabet.

WAFCON quarter finals – VAR Controversy in Morocco vs Senegal

The Rabat clash was tense and intense, with controversy emerging just before half-time. Initially missed by referee Shamirah Nabadda, a VAR review showed Senegal goalkeeper Adji Ndiaye hitting Morocco forward Ibtissam Jraidi in the face. Although many expected a red card, a yellow was shown and a penalty awarded. Mrabet, composed under pressure, slotted it home in stoppage time — her team’s third successful penalty in the group.

With this victory, Morocco’s WAFCON 2024 campaign continues strongly, topping Group A with seven points. Meanwhile, Zambia’s women’s team also booked a place in the WAFCON quarter finals, overcoming DR Congo 1-0, with Racheal Kundananji scoring the decisive goal.

Despite going down to 10 players after Falonne Pambani was sent off, Zambia held their nerve and now await a Group B opponent in the next round. Morocco will face one of the best third-placed teams from Group B or C.

The Olympic Stadium in Rabat was at full capacity, offering an electric atmosphere even though clear goal chances were limited. VAR played a key role again, disallowing a late goal from Ghizlane Chebbak due to offside. In total, seven yellow cards were shown as the physical nature of the contest grew.

While Chebbak and Jraidi missed some key chances, Morocco’s quality across the field made the difference. They remain in Rabat for the quarter-final clash this Friday, while Zambia stay in Mohammedia. Senegal, with only three points, must now hope to qualify as one of the best third-placed teams.

The WAFCON quarter finals promise high tension, especially with top teams like Morocco and Zambia bringing form, resilience, and controversy to the pitch. With the knockout stage set to begin, all eyes are on who will rise to the occasion.