TotalEnergies CAF Women’s AFCON 2024: Morocco’s Profile
How the team qualified
Morocco qualified for the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) as the host nation. Already finalists in the previous edition in 2022 (editor’s note: they lost the final to South Africa 2-1), the Atlas Lionesses have since confirmed their status as a rising force in African women’s football, notably reaching the Round of 16 at the most recent FIFA Women’s World Cup.
TotalEnergies CAF WAFCON history
The CAF TotalEnergies Women’s AFCON 2024 marks Morocco’s fourth appearance in the tournament, after participating in 1998, 2000, and 2022. Thanks to the structural momentum provided by the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), the national team has undergone a profound transformation. The 2022 edition, also hosted on home soil, was a true turning point, as Morocco had a remarkable run all the way to the final, narrowly losing to South Africa (2-1).
Players to Watch
Ghizlane Chebbak
The iconic captain and best player of the 2022 edition with 3 goals. She brings experience and leadership to the squad. Daughter of former Moroccan international Larbi Chebbak, she acts as a bridge between generations and plays a central role in the team’s emotional and tactical stability.
At 33, her football intelligence, vision, and ability to change the game from set pieces make her indispensable.
Fatima Tagnaout
A dynamic left winger who plays for AS FAR, she is a consistent performer in the local league. Known for her dribbling, agility, and excellent crossing ability, she often initiates Morocco’s decisive plays. Named best player in the domestic league multiple times, she represents the success of local player development and symbolizes the rise of women’s football in Morocco. 
The Coach
Jorge Vilda, former coach of Spain’s 2023 World Cup-winning team, was appointed head coach of the Moroccan women’s national team in October 2023. He succeeded Reynald Pedros and continues the ambitious project driven by the FRMF. His top-level experience, knowledge of young talent, and modern tactical approach make him a strategic asset in Morocco’s pursuit of a first continental title.
Ambitions and Group analysis
As the host nation, Morocco is clearly aiming for the title. After coming up just short in 2022, the goal is to take that final step. The Lionesses will play in front of their home fans and are embracing their role as favourites.
They have been drawn into a highly competitive Group A with Zambia, Senegal, and DR Congo. If they can maintain cohesion and handle the pressure from home expectations, Morocco has the tools to go all the way.