The opening goal came from Sanaâ Mssoudy in the 3rd minute of the match, before Keitumetse Dithebe responded in the 7th minute with the equalizer.
Yasmin Mrabet extended the lead in favour of Morocco in the 59th minute.
During the first period, the Atlas Lionesses exerted continuous pressure on the Botswana defense in an attempt to take the lead, notably through the incursions of Rosella Ayane, Ghizlane Chebbak and Sanaâ Mssoudy.
Throughout this first period, the Moroccan players dominated possession of the ball with penetrations into the opposing camp through the left and right flanks.
Lacking efficiency, but with a dynamic game and an offensive construction, Reynald Pedros’ protégés had to settle for a draw at the end of this first half.
Back from the locker room, the Atlas Lionesses continued their offensive momentum despite the Botswanans’ attempts to reduce the pace of play in order to contain the Moroccans’ attacks.
A set ball from Fatima Tagnaout found the head of Yasmin Mrabet who scored the second goal in favor of Morocco.
This second goal delivered the Atlas Lionesses who stepped up their attacks to extend their lead, notably through Sanaâ Mssoudy whose shot hit the post.
For a place in the final, the Atlas Lionesses will play the semi-final against the winner of Cameroon/Nigeria.
To reach the same round, Cameroon will face Nigeria on Thursday at the Mohammed V Sports Complex in Casablanca, while South Africa will cross swords with Tunisia at the HRH Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan Sports Complex in Rabat.
2024-09-05 20:20:28