The final of the African Cup of Nations (CAN) was played on Saturday 23 July at the Prince Moulay Abdallah Stadium in Morocco. The South Africans beat the Atlas Lionesses 2-1 to win the first trophy in their history.
South Africa’s banyana banyana have finally broken the curse. Five times unfortunate finalists of the women’s CAN (1995, 2000, 2008, 2012 and 2018), they tasted the delights of glory for the first time by eliminating the Moroccans by a score of 2-1.
A very tight first half between Banyana Banyana and the Atlas Lions.
The kick-off of the final of the 14th edition of the African Women’s Cup of Nations was given by the sporting public present at the Prince Moulay Abdallah Stadium in Morocco. A crowded stadium where Morocco and South Africa were each facing their own destiny. Both teams started the game with a lot more pressure. Both the Moroccan and South African sides failed to find the back of the net.
South Africa went for broke in the second half.
Six matches, six victories and a big win in the semi-final over Nigeria, holders of 11 titles, the banyana banyana were more tactically present against the Moroccans who let their guard down. South Africa’s striker Hildah Magaia struck twice in the 63rd and 71st minutes to put the Moroccans in front. A flat-footed finish from striker Rosella Ayane (80th) certainly gave the Atlas Lionesses the chance to dream of a comeback and extra time. But despite nine minutes of stoppage time, they were unable to equalise.
The 14th edition of the Africa Women’s Cup of Nations Morocco 2022 was a great adventure for South Africa, which won its first title after six matches and six wins. She will therefore play in the 2023 World Cup alongside the Moroccans (2nd), the Zambians (3rd) and the Nigerians (4th).
