Morocco and Zambia played out an exciting 2-2 draw in their opening Group A match at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) on Saturday in Rabat.

Zambia took the lead just 58 seconds into the match through reigning African Women’s Player of the Year, Barbra Banda. Morocco equalized in the 12th minute after a VAR review led to a penalty, which Ibtissam Jraidi confidently converted.

Banda then turned provider, setting up Racheal Kundananji in the 27th minute to restore Zambia’s lead. Although Zambia remained in front for most of the game, Morocco dominated possession with 69% and eventually found a late equalizer in the 87th minute. Ghizlane Chebbak struck a powerful shot into the top left corner from outside the box, leaving Ngambo Musole with no chance.

Nora Hauptle’s reaction

Speaking after the match, Zambia’s coach Nora Hauptle said her team executed the game plan well but acknowledged Morocco’s technical quality.

“We fully controlled the game; our game plan was well executed. We had enough chances and should have led 3 or 4-1. Morocco made substitutions; they have technically very good players. It’s a good team—very skillful—and they made substitutions, so we decided to play with a deep block. I would say in the last 20 minutes, they dominated possession, and in the end, we conceded.”

When asked about the late goal and whether Musole could have done better, Hauptle responded: “Our number one goalkeeper was out today due to medical reasons, so our number two goalkeeper played. But for me, she played well, and communication was good. I never judge a single player—it’s always a team.”

Zambia and Morocco now share a point each in Group A. They will next face Senegal and the Democratic Republic of Congo, respectively, on Wednesday.

READ MORE: Morocco score late to deny Zambia in 2-2 WAFCON opener