13-07-2025
Vilda: ‘The Players Kept the Score Intact Against a Strong Opponent' in WAFCON Group Stage
Rabat – Morocco's women's national football team closed the group stage of the 2024 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) with a narrow 1-0 win over Senegal on Saturday in Rabat.
The result sends the Atlas Lionesses through to the quarter-finals as group leaders, edging Zambia on goal difference.
Coach Jorge Vilda, addressing the media after the match, commended his players for their discipline and unity. 'The defensive line did its job. They kept the score intact against a strong side,' he said.
'We pushed forward and created chances. We could have scored more, but what mattered was keeping control and protecting the lead.'
Vilda explained that his team focused on possession and collective play throughout the match.
'We made a few adjustments to stay sharp. The idea was to play as one and not lose sight of our objective,' he added. 'The road is still long, but this victory keeps our momentum alive.'
Aziza Rabbah, who earned the player of the match award, echoed her coach's thoughts. 'We faced difficult matches throughout the group stage. But with determination and good football, we reached the quarter-finals,' she said.
'Senegal gave us our hardest game . It was decisive, but we came out with three points and kept first place.'
Rabbah credited the team's spirit for the win. 'We never gave up. We stayed aggressive and held our advantage.'
'The match against Senegal wasn't easy, and the next one won't be either. We have to give it our all if we want to keep winning,' said Ghizlane Chebbak, the team captain.
Morocco now advances with seven points, level with Zambia but ahead on goal difference. Tags: Atlas LionessesMoroccoVildaWAFCON
