D-2 before the Women’s AFCON: 50,000 Hearts Beating as One in Rabat
The countdown is in full swing as the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, Morocco 2024, draws near. To mark the 13th edition of the competition, CAFOnline.com is revisiting iconic moments that have defined the tournament’s rich history. With just two days to go, we look back on an unforgettable evening — the record-breaking final of the 2022 edition at Rabat’s Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.
The TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations kicks off in just 2 days.
On 23 July 2022, Morocco faced South Africa in the final of “its” WAFCON, in a charged, electric atmosphere. A crowd of 50,000 packed the stands — an unprecedented turnout in the history of African women’s football. Never before had a WAFCON final drawn such a massive audience inside a single stadium.
“What I experienced that night is something I will never forget. The energy from the crowd, the songs, the flags… It was beautiful, it was powerful,” recalled Atlas Lionesses captain Ghizlane Chebbak, who was later named Player of the Tournament.
That evening, 50,000 hearts beat in unison, driven by the hope of seeing Morocco claim its first continental title. Under the guidance of Reynald Pedros, the Moroccan side had already made history by becoming the first North African nation to reach the WAFCON final. But standing in their way were the determined Banyana Banyana of South Africa, led by Hildah Magaia and head coach Desiree Ellis, also eyeing a maiden crown.
What followed was a gripping, hard-fought contest. In the end, it was South Africa who emerged victorious, edging Morocco 2-1 thanks to a brace from Magaia. Despite the heartbreak, Morocco walked away from the tournament with pride. The team had proven that women’s football could rally entire nations, ignite emotion, and inspire lasting change.
“What we witnessed in 2022 went beyond football. It was a movement — a celebration of women’s football, a turning point for our continent,” Desiree Ellis said after the final.
As the 2024 edition approaches, the image of a packed stadium in Rabat still echoes across African football. It stands as a powerful reminder that WAFCON has entered a new era — driven by passionate fans, inspiring players, and unstoppable momentum for recognition and growth.
Morocco is ready to write a new chapter.