The 2024 WAFCON, hosted for the second consecutive time in Morocco, has lived up to its promise. The group stages have been packed with early goals, surprising exits, inspiring breakthroughs, VAR drama, and unforgettable moments. As the quarterfinals approach, here’s a look back at the journey from the opening whistle to the final matches of the group phase.
Lightning start: Zambia’s Barbra Banda
The tournament burst into life when Zambia’s Barbra Banda scored just 18 seconds into their Group A opener against hosts Morocco. It was a powerful statement that set the tone for an unpredictable WAFCON. Banda didn’t stop there, she assisted Racheal Kundananji in a thrilling 2–2 draw, signaling Zambia’s fierce ambition. Both Banda and Kundananji have accounted for all of Zambia’s goals so far, helping their team finish second in the group and qualify for the quarterfinals.
Senegal’s strong start in group A
Senegal made a statement of their own with a ruthless 4–0 win over DR Congo on Matchday 1. Mama Diop and Nguenar Ndiaye each scored twice in the first half, securing vital points early on. Despite later losses to Zambia and Morocco, Senegal’s commanding start ensured their place in the knockouts. Ndiaye is among the tournament’s top scorers, having netted 4 goals in the opening games.
Morocco’s resilience under pressure
Under new head coach Jorge Vilda, who recently guided Spain to a World Cup title Morocco faced high expectations as hosts, and they delivered. After a thrilling 2–2 draw with Zambia, where they twice came from behind, they showed even more resilience against DR Congo, overturning a deficit again to win 4–2, with captain Ghizlane Chebbak netting a hat-trick. Their composure held firm in a tense 1–0 win over Senegal, sealed by Yasmin Mrabet’s late first half penalty. Morocco topped Group A, with Zambia and Senegal also advancing, proof of how tough the group was.
DR Congo’s moment of pride
After the thrashing they took against Senegal in their opening game, DR Congo briefly silenced 21,000 fans at Rabat’s Olympic Stadium when they took the lead against Morocco. Although they eventually lost 4–2, Flavine Mawete’s 70th-minute equaliser to make it 2–2 stood out as one of their tournament’s memorable moments. It was a testament to DR Congo’s fighting spirit in an incredibly tough group.
Nigeria’s depth and dominance
Group B saw Nigeria reaffirm their status as a tournament heavyweight. They opened with a commanding 3–0 win over Tunisia, featuring a bright debut from Rinsola Babajide who scored and assisted within 45 minutes. Yet, the bench became Nigeria’s secret weapon. Chinwendu Ihezuo came off the bench in both their first two matches, scoring twice with assists from Esther Okoronkwo, also a substitute. Nigeria’s third match secured a third clean sheet, allowing them to top Group B without conceding a single goal.
Algeria’s historic breakthrough
Algeria reached the quarterfinals for the first time, overturning their history of group-stage exits. They started with a 1–0 win over Botswana thanks to Ghoutia Karchouni, then held Tunisia to a goalless draw. Their real highlight was a resilient 0–0 draw with defending champions Nigeria. Finishing second in Group B unbeaten, Algeria’s tactical discipline under coach Farid Benstiti has transformed them into serious contenders heading into the quarterfinals.
Botswana’s last-gasp heroics
Botswana’s spirited campaign included a dramatic 2–1 stoppage-time win over Tunisia, courtesy of Ontlametse Gaonyadiwe’s 95th-minute strike. Despite the jubilation, the calculators came out. With just three points from three matches and a negative goal difference, Botswana finished third in the group with the points too low to be among the best third-placed sides. Still, Botswana’s late winner was one of the tournament’s most emotional highlights, showcasing their fighting spirit.
Tunisia’s disappointing campaign
Tunisia started with high hopes but struggled early, losing 3–0 to Nigeria. They bounced back with a resilient 0–0 draw against Algeria, thanks in large part to goalkeeper Salima Jobrani’s crucial saves. However, a late defeat to Botswana dashed their quarterfinal dreams. Tunisia finished bottom of Group B with just one point, exiting despite moments of real fight.
South Africa: Champions tested and ready
Defending champions South Africa began steadily, beating Ghana 2–0 and showing glimpses of their quality. However, a surprising 1–1 draw with ten-woman Tanzania jolted them awake. They responded emphatically with a 4–0 demolition of Mali to top Group C and reassert themselves as serious title contenders.
Ghana’s rocky road
Ghana stumbled out of the gate, losing 2–0 to South Africa and drawing 1–1 with Mali. But they recovered spectacularly, thrashing Tanzania 4–1 in their final match to claim second place in Group C and advance to the quarterfinals. Their strong finish underscores their potential to go deep into the tournament.
Mali’s narrow escape
Mali started well with a 1–0 win over Tanzania and added a draw against Ghana. However, their campaign ended on a sour note with a heavy 4–0 loss to South Africa. Despite finishing third in Group C, their four points were enough to secure a quarterfinal spot as one of the best third-placed teams. Now, they must regroup quickly to stay alive.
Tanzania’s brave exit
After a narrow opening loss to Mali, they earned a memorable draw against South Africa despite playing with ten players for much of the match. Though a heavy defeat to Ghana ended their run, Tanzania leaves the tournament with newfound respect and fans inspired by their grit and courage.
VAR and officiating drama
Video Assistant Refereeing (VAR) has played a central role in the drama of WAFCON 2024. Penalty decisions and key calls have kept coaches pacing and fans debating, shaping the outcomes of several matches. Whether loved or hated, VAR remains a defining factor in the tournament’s unfolding story.
Stars, surprises, and disappointments
Among the standout performers are Barbra Banda of Zambia, who ranks among the top scorers; Morocco’s captain Ghizlane Chebbak, who has been crucial with vital goals including a hat-trick; and Nigeria’s Ashleigh Plumptre, whose composure and distribution from the back have been pivotal.
Surprise packages include Tanzania, who won hearts despite exiting early, and Botswana, whose resilience and last-gasp heroics captured attention even though they narrowly missed out on the knockout stage.
Disappointments have Tunisia and DR Congo, who struggled with defensive stability and composure in critical moments.
Heading into the quarterfinals
With 45 goals scored across 18 group games, including a hat-trick, last-minute winners, red cards, and VAR controversies, WAFCON 2024 has delivered edge-of-your-seat action. Morocco rides a wave of passionate home support, Nigeria remains a formidable force, South Africa is defending its crown with renewed vigor, and underdogs like Algeria and Zambia threaten to upset the established order.
The story is far from over, but one thing is clear: WAFCON 2024 has already delivered a tournament full of heart, drama, and unforgettable moments.
