WAFCON 2025: Ghana face Morocco in fierce semi-final battle

Host nation Morocco will face Ghana in a highly anticipated 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) semi-final showdown at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat on Tuesday, as the Atlas Lionesses continue their pursuit of continental glory on home soil.

The Moroccans have been in impressive form throughout the tournament, topping Group A on goal difference after collecting seven points.

They began their campaign with a thrilling 2-2 draw against Zambia, followed by a commanding 4-2 victory over the Democratic Republic of Congo and a narrow 1-0 win over Senegal.

In the quarter-finals, the Atlas Lionesses delivered a commanding performance to dispatch Mali 3-1.

Ibtissam Jraïdi led the charge with a brace, while Kenza Chapelle added a late goal. Despite conceding in stoppage time, Morocco’s attacking display reaffirmed their credentials as one of the tournament favourites.

Meanwhile, Ghana have navigated a challenging path to the last four. Drawn in the group of death alongside defending champions South Africa, Mali, and Tanzania, the Black Queens showed grit and resilience.

A 2-0 loss to South Africa in their opener was followed by a 1-1 draw with Mali before a 4-1 win over Tanzania, and South Africa’s demolition of Mali helped Ghana seal second place in Group C with four points.

The Black Queens booked their semi-final ticket with a dramatic 4-2 penalty shootout win over Algeria after a goalless 120 minutes, showcasing their mental toughness under pressure.

Ghana are aiming to reach their first WAFCON final since 2006 and will lean on the creativity of playmaker Alice Kusi and the relentless energy of Chantelle Boye.

“Playing the host nation is exciting, not pressure,” Kusi said with a smile, underlining the team’s fearless mindset ahead of the clash.