Morocco head coach Jorge Vilda said on Friday, August 7, that his “technical staff had carried out an in-depth analysis of South Africa” ahead of Saturday’s Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) quarterfinal.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference at Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat, Vilda noted that “every match presents unique challenges, with each team possessing distinct strengths and weaknesses.” He added that Morocco’s strategy is fundamentally based on the team’s playing philosophy and its resolve to dictate the game’s style.
The Spanish coach acknowledged the staff’s full awareness of South Africa’s strengths, particularly their ability to build attacks from the back, the pace of their forward line, and the experience of their players. He also expressed confidence in his squad and their ambition to reach the semifinals, which would guarantee direct qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Addressing Morocco’s lack of goals in their previous match, Vilda described it as a temporary issue, noting that the team continues to create scoring opportunities. He also urged Moroccan supporters to attend in large numbers and back the Atlas Lionesses in what he called a decisive encounter.
Goalkeeper Khadija Er-Rmichi stated that the squad fully understands its responsibility and believes the national team has continuously improved with each tournament edition. She added that the players’ objective is to deliver a performance worthy of the progress made in Moroccan women’s football.
Er-Rmichi emphasized the team’s focus on performing their best against South Africa, recognizing both the match’s importance and the quality of the opposition. She added that everyone in the squad is determined to represent Morocco in the best possible way.
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Meanwhile, South Africa head coach Desiree Ellis said her side fully comprehends the magnitude of the challenge against the hosts, especially given the home advantage and anticipated crowd support. She stressed that her players would need to remain fully focused throughout the match.
Morocco will face South Africa on Saturday at Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat, with kick-off scheduled for 9 p.m. local time.
The four semifinalists will automatically qualify for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil, while the quarterfinal losers will have to compete in intercontinental play-offs to keep their qualification hopes alive.
