Lamia Boumehdi: ‘This Is a Historic Opportunity for Morocco’
Three years after a painful defeat to South Africa in the final of the 2022 TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), Morocco is back on the grand stage, this time facing Nigeria, Africa’s most decorated women’s football team in Rabat For Lamia Boumehdi, former Morocco U20 coach and the first woman to win the CAF Women’s Champions League with TP Mazembe, the moment carries personal and national significance.
As someone who has played, coached, and championed women’s football in Morocco, Boumehdi offers deep insights on the team’s journey, the task ahead, and what it means for the nation.
Pride in a Generation She Helped Shape
Boumehdi’s fingerprints are all over this Moroccan team. From her years developing talent in the Sport-Studies program and with the national youth teams, to sharing the pitch with current leaders of the squad, her connection to the players is rooted in experience and mentorship.
“As a former coach within the Sport-Studies program and the Moroccan national team setup, it is a tremendous source of pride to see players I helped nurture at the age of 14 or 15 now competing in the final of the CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations,” she told CAFOnline.com.
“I’m thinking in particular of players like Mssoudy, Tagnaout, Zineb Redouani, and Nahila Benzina. I also share a deep bond with several other players with whom I once shared the pitch as a player such as Khadija Er-Rmichi, Aziza Rabbah, Ghizlane Chebbak, and Najat Badri.
"To witness this generation shining on the continental stage is not only a matter of immense pride but also clear proof that investment in youth development and grassroots work is the cornerstone of success and sustainability.”
Respect for Nigeria, Confidence in Morocco
While Nigeria brings pedigree, trophies, and decades of dominance to Saturday’s final, Boumehdi believes Morocco is no longer an underdog. The 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup appearance, alongside consistent progress at the continental level, has hardened the team into serious contenders.
“There is no doubt that Nigeria is one of the powerhouses of African football, with an impressive record and rich history. However, we must also remember that this Moroccan team is reaching the final of the Africa Cup of Nations for the second time.
“They also competed at the World Cup, where they delivered an honorable performance, proudly representing the African continent. Today, they have gained true experience at the highest level.
"The Moroccan team has become a formidable force in African women’s football—capable of challenging even the most established nations.”
A Message to the Lionesses: Believe, Stay Focused
As someone who has tasted continental glory with TP Mazembe, Boumehdi knows what it takes to win big games. Her message to Jorge Vilda’ side ahead of the clash with Nigeria stresses that this is more than a match, it’s a moment to define their legacy.
“Having experienced the demands of elite African football with TP Mazembe, I would say this to the Atlas Lionesses, occasions like this are more than just matches, they are historic opportunities. Against a team like Nigeria, you need focus, emotional composure, and total commitment,” member of the Technical Study Group, said.
“Above all, you must believe in yourselves and in your collective strength. You have already proven your ability to compete with the very best. So play with heart, with discipline, and with ambition. You carry the dreams of an entire nation but more importantly, you are writing your own history.”
Looking ahead to the final whistle, Boumehdi trusts that tactical awareness, emotional control, and the home crowd can tip the balance in Morocco’s favour.“Every team has its strengths and weaknesses. I am confident that the Moroccan national team’s technical staff has thoroughly analyzed Nigeria’s style of play. In my view, the team that remains focused until the final whistle, capitalizes on its strong moments, and manages its weaker phases effectively, will come out victorious.
“Morocco also holds a significant advantage, the unwavering support of its fans, who will fill the stadium and drive the players forward. That kind of backing can make a huge difference, especially in terms of mental and psychological strength.” As the Atlas Lionesses prepare to face Nigeria, Boumehdi thinks Morocco’s return to the WAFCON final is not just a match, it’s the culmination of years of belief, hard work, and a chance to make history.
