Jorge Vilda’s side was held to a 0-0 draw by Senegal in its third and final Group A match of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations at Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat. The result secured Morocco’s place at the top of the group and confirmed its qualification for the quarterfinals.
For the match, Vilda named almost the same starting XI as in Morocco’s previous two outings, making just one change. Kautar Azaaf started on the bench, while captain Ghizlane Chebbak returned to the lineup.
Morocco dominated possession from the opening stages but was unable to break the deadlock before halftime. Ghizlane Chebbak, Sakina Ouzraoui and Élodie Nakkach all created chances but failed to find the back of the net.
The Atlas Lionesses continued to push after the break, creating further opportunities, but were repeatedly denied by a well-organized Senegalese defense and an outstanding goalkeeper.
Morocco was awarded a penalty in the 64th minute. Yasmin Mrabet stepped up to take the spot kick, but her effort was saved by the Senegal goalkeeper. The penalty was retaken, and the goalkeeper denied her once again.
Senegal also threatened on a few occasions but was unable to seriously test the Moroccan defense.
Vilda later introduced several substitutes, including Fatima Tagnaout and Najat Badri, in an effort to inject fresh energy into his side.
The draw leaves Morocco at the top of Group A with seven points, following earlier victories over Kenya (4-0) and Algeria (1-0). The Atlas Lionesses will face the runner-up of Group B—which includes Côte d’Ivoire, Burkina Faso, Tanzania and South Africa—in the quarterfinals.
