2024 Women's AFCON: Morocco and Zambia advance to the quarter-finals | OneFootball

The Atlas Lionesses and the Copper Queens get the job done on the final day of Group A.

2024 Women's AFCON: Morocco and Zambia advance to the quarter-finals

Morocco and Zambia booked their spots in the quarter-finals of the 2024 Women's Africa Cup of Nations after the final day of Group A action on Saturday, July 12, 2025. The Atlas Lionesses edged Senegal 1-0, while the Copper Queens secured a win over DR Congo by the same scoreline.

The third and final matchday of the 2024 Women's AFCON group stage kicked off on Saturday evening with the clashes Morocco vs Senegal and Zambia vs DR Congo. In these decisive fixtures, it was the Atlas Lionesses and Copper Queens who clinched the top two spots in Group A.

Morocco edge out Senegal in a hard-fought battle

In a tense and fiercely contested encounter at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat, Morocco sealed their qualification by defeating Senegal thanks to a penalty late in the first half. In the 45+2nd minute, Yasmin M’Rabet converted from the spot after Senegalese goalkeeper Adji Ndiaye fouled Ibtissam Jraïdi in the box. VAR confirmed the decision.Despite several attempts in the second half, the Atlas Lionesses couldn't extend their lead. Instead, they had to withstand a spirited Senegalese fightback. Khadija Er-Rmichi stood tall in goal, while Morocco's defense kept the threats of Mama Diop and Nguenar Ndiaye at bay. Morocco finish the group stage top with 7 points.

Zambia manage their match and seal qualification

In Casablanca, Zambia only needed a draw to go through. But the Copper Queens went one better, claiming a 1-0 win over DR Congo, who were fighting for their last chance in the tournament. Racheal Kundananji scored the game's only goal in the 9th minute with a perfectly struck direct free kick.

Reduced to ten after Falonne Pambani was sent off in the 69th minute, the Congolese side fought bravely but couldn't find a breakthrough. Despite several chances created by Flavine Mawete and Merveille Kanjinga, they were denied by the resolute goalkeeping of Ng’ambo Musole and a well-organized Zambian defense. Thanks to this victory, Zambia secure second place in Group A with 7 points. DR Congo exit the competition without a win, but with a commendable performance in their final match.