Morocco held their nerve in front of a packed stadium in Rabat to dump out the nine-time winners and ensure they set up a final against South Africa
Morocco qualified for the final of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) for the first time in their history after beating nine-woman Nigeria 5-4 on penalties following a 1-1 draw.
Atlas Lionesses goalkeeper Khadija Er-Rmici denied Ifeoma Onumonu in the second round of the shootout, allowing Rosella Ayane to stroke in the winning kick.
After having midfielder Halimatu Ayinde dismissed, Nigeria took the lead through an own goal from Yasmine Mrabet before Sanaa Mssoudy quickly equalised.
The defending champions then had forward Rasheedat Ajibade sent off with 19 minutes left, and a resolute defensive display saw the match go the distance.
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It was one-way traffic in extra-time, but the North Africans could not find a way past Nigeria goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie and Gift Monday almost won it for the Super Falcons when her fierce effort cannoned back off the crossbar.
But Morocco held their nerve in front of a packed stadium in Rabat to dump out the nine-time winners and ensure there will be a new name on the WAFCON trophy.
Earlier on Monday, four-time Wafcon runners-up South Africa needed a contentious injury-time penalty to secure a 1-0 victory over Zambia.
Linda Motlhalo kept her cool to convert in the 94th minute after Martha Tembo was adjudged to have fouled Jermaine Seoposenwe.
(BBC)
