The matches will begin tomorrow Friday with a 5pm showdown between record nine-time winners, Nigeria and 2022 bronze medalists, Zambia. The game will take place at the Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca.
The eight teams that have qualified for the quarterfinals of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations tournament will begin chasing semifinal belts this Friday July 18. The matches will begin with a 5pm showdown between record nine-time winners, Nigeria and 2022 bronze medalists, Zambia at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca. The games will also feature Morocco, Senegal, Algeria, South Africa, Ghana, and Mali. An encounter worthy of a final will kick off the quarterfinal stage of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
Nine-time champions Nigeria have once again proven their ability to rise to the occasion. Boasting a solid defense, the Super Falcons head into this clash with both confidence and caution, aware of the threat posed by a formidable Zambian side. Zambia, who finished second in their group behind hosts Morocco, are known for their attacking firepower. Led by the dynamic duo of Barbra Banda and Racheal Kundananji, the Copper Queens are clinical and creative, ready to seize any opportunity. This match also serves as a rematch of the 2022 third-place playoff, where Zambia edged Nigeria 1–0.
The Nigeria versus Zambia game will be followed by the cracker between host Morocco and Mali. The game will kick off at 8pm Cameroon and will also take place at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca. With 7 points from the group stage, Morocco topped their group through a blend of cohesive play and disciplined defending. Led by their iconic captain Ghizlane Chebbak, the Atlas Lionesses are aiming to rise to the occasion on home soil in a packed Stade Olympique in Rabat.
Their opponents, Mali, are a determined side capable of challenging any team. Effective in transition and mentally resilient, they secured qualification from a tough group. Expect a tightly contested battle: Morocco, riding a wave of confidence and home support, versus a fearless Malian team banking on their physical presence and athletic prowess.
Algeria set to challenge Ghana
The Black Queens of Ghana will take on Algeria at 5pm on Saturday July 19 in the first game of day two of the quarterfinal series. The match will be staged at the Berkane Municipal Stadium. Algeria has emerged as one of the surprise packages of the tournament. Under head coach Farid Benstiti, the team has struck a balance between tactical discipline and attacking flair. Their historic quarterfinal qualification is the result of diligent work by a united squad and a driven technical team.
Facing them is Ghana, one of the heavyweights of African women’s football. With a rich history in the tournament, the Black Queens are aiming for their first semifinal appearance since 2016. Known for their physicality, high pressing, and ability to shift gears in the final third, Ghana will present a formidable challenge.
Holders South Africa face Senegal test
The Banyana Banyana will take on Senegal at the Berkane Municipal Stadium at 8pm in the last quarterfinal fixture. Defending champions South Africa remain one of the tournament favorites. With leaders like Refiloe Jane and Jermaine Seoposenwe, coach Desiree Ellis’s team relies on a well-oiled collective and strong technical ability. Although they stumbled slightly in the group stage, including a 1–1 draw with Tanzania, Banyana Banyana delivered when it mattered most.
Their clash with Senegal promises to be a stern test. Senegal advanced as one of the best third-placed teams. They have showcased impressive tactical discipline, solid defensive structure, and unrelenting determination. Matching their opponents in physical intensity, Senegal aims to disrupt South Africa’s rhythm and capitalize on quick transitions and counterattacks.
