The Prince Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat, Morocco, rocked to the rhythm of a masterful performance by the Atlas Lionesses on Friday, July 18, 2025. The Moroccan women’s national team secured their spot in the semifinals of the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with a commanding 3-1 victory over Mali. The highly anticipated quarterfinal match quickly turned in favor of the hosts. In the 7th minute of play, Moroccan striker Ibtissam Jraidi broke the deadlock, igniting the crowd and setting the tone for a match dominated by the Lionesses.
The Atlas Lionesses shone on July 18, 2025, at the Prince Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat, winning 3-1 against Mali in the quarterfinals of the 2025 Women’s African Cup of Nations. Morocco took an early lead thanks to a goal from Ibtissam Jraidi in the 7th minute, largely dominating the match. Despite Mali’s resistance, the Moroccan defense remained solid throughout. This convincing victory propels the Atlas Lionesses into the semifinals of « their » Africa Cup of Nations. The team put in a controlled performance, paving the way for a potential home final.
« Our number 10 player played a distinguished match with tremendous ability. This helped us a lot. Fortunately, we succeeded. The rest of the changes were also good, whether it was Kenza or Saoud, who scored two goals in this AFCON. All the changes we made were positive. »
Jorge Vilda, Atlas Lionesses Coach – Morocco
The rescue came late in the match, where Morocco’s attacking talent shone once again. In the 79th minute, Ibtissam Jraidi, a former player of Morocco’s AS FAR, did it again, scoring a brace that seemed to seal the match. She thus increased her tally to three goals in the tournament. Far from stopping there, the Lionesses put the finishing touches to the score in the 89th minute through Kenza Chapelle, making it an impressive 3-0 and sparking genuine jubilation in the crowd stands. However, Mali didn’t give up. In the final seconds of added time, in the 96th minute, Aissata Traoré managed to reduce the deficit for the Eaglets, scoring an honorable goal that, however, did nothing to change the outcome of this undeniable qualification.
« I believe our performance today was not only excellent, but also superior. » If the same situation occurs in the next match, the team’s performance will continue to improve. We have 26 players, and the good news is that they are all committed. I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to the fans who supported us by filling our stands to capacity.
Jorge Vilda, Atlas Lionesses Coach – Morocco
This 3-1 victory, despite the late goal conceded, propels Morocco confidently into the semi-finals of the competition. The atmosphere was electric, reflecting on the popular enthusiasm for women’s football and the immense hope placed in this team. The Atlas Lionesses continue their exceptional run and are now preparing to face a tough opponent in the semi-finals, with the firm intention of reaching the final and lifting the trophy on home soil.
