By: Kwame Bediako
His Majesty King Mohammed VI warmly received the Moroccan women’s national football team following their remarkable achievement of winning the silver medal at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) held on home soil.
The team was celebrated for their valiant performance, where despite leading 2-0 at halftime, they were narrowly defeated 3-2 by Nigeria in a thrilling final, securing the runners-up position for the second consecutive tournament.
The royal reception is widely viewed as a powerful endorsement of Morocco’s dedication to advancing women’s football in the country. Since 2019, Morocco has rolled out an ambitious strategic plan focused on developing the women’s game.
This comprehensive approach includes establishing national leagues, launching youth championships, providing financial and technical support to clubs and incorporating women’s football into regional football academies, reflecting a long-term vision for growth and inclusivity.
Morocco’s progress in women’s football is evident at every level. The senior women’s team reached the WAFCON finals in both 2022 and 2024 and made an impressive debut at the 2023 Women’s World Cup by advancing to the Round of 16.
Furthermore, the nation’s youth teams have made consecutive qualifications for the U17 and U20 World Cups, underscoring a strong talent pipeline. Additionally, Morocco triumphed in the inaugural Women’s Futsal Africa Cup of Nations in 2025, demonstrating success across multiple formats of the sport.
At the club level, Moroccan teams have also made significant strides on the continental stage. AS FAR and Sporting Club Casablanca have both reached the finals of the CAF Women’s Champions League, a historic feat that makes Morocco the first nation to have two different clubs compete in the final of this prestigious competition.
These achievements reflect the increasing competitiveness and professionalism of women’s football within the country. King Mohammed VI’s recognition of the Atlas Lionesses following their notable performances and the concerted national efforts to elevate women’s football symbolize a pivotal moment for the sport in Morocco.
This royal acknowledgment not only celebrates past successes but also reinforces the country’s commitment to further empowering women athletes and positioning Morocco as a leader in African women’s football.
