Morocco coach Jorge Vilda believes in his team’s tactical discipline ahead of their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) final against the Super Falcons of Nigeria.
Speaking ahead of the WAFCON final, Vilda said the Atlas Lionesses are prepared to face the most decorated team in African women’s football without fear.
“Nigeria have shown a lot of improvement through the tournament and has overcome some very difficult teams,” Vilda stated on Friday. “But we are going to face them without any inferiority complex.”
The Spaniard, who helped Spain win the 2023 Women’s World Cup before his controversial exit following the Rubiales-Hermoso scandal, is now on the verge of a unique double. Victory on Saturday would make him the first coach to win the Women’s World Cup and WAFCON titles.
Since taking charge of Morocco, Vilda has weathered public scepticism to win over football enthusiasts.
His tactical adjustments have been crucial in Morocco’s journey to the WAFCON final, most notably his halftime changes that turned the tide against Ghana in the semi-finals.
The Lionesses had earlier come from behind twice to edge Zambia in their group opener, a testament to their growing resilience under pressure.
“The psychological aspect overrides the physical one in games like this,” Vilda added. “Nigeria has strong physical players with very outstanding players in terms of their individual qualities. They play in big leagues and have won the trophy many times.”
Despite the optimism, Morocco faces a nervous wait on striker Fatima Tagnaout, who remains a fitness doubt. Vilda confirmed she would undergo a final test during Friday’s training session to determine her availability.
Chebbak Seeks Redemption, Writes Final Chapter
Morocco captain Ghizlane Chebbak is also dreaming big. The 34-year-old forward, a key figure in Morocco’s recent rise, sees Saturday’s final as an opportunity for both redemption and legacy.
Three years ago, Chebbak led Morocco to their first-ever WAFCON final, only to suffer a 2–1 defeat to South Africa in front of home fans. Now, she returns to the same stage, more determined than ever to go one step further.
“Our efforts got us through to this stage and we are very keen to play the final, especially against such a well-known side as Nigeria,” Chebbak said.
The veteran forward is currently the tournament’s joint top scorer with four goals.
She was instrumental in guiding her team through a nail-biting penalty shootout victory over Ghana in the semis, much like her composed performance in the 2022 semi-final where Morocco famously knocked Nigeria out on penalties.
That 2022 showdown saw Nigeria finish the match with nine players, yet still push Morocco all the way.
Chebbak’s calm under pressure, tactical intelligence, and deep connection to the Moroccan badge make her the heartbeat of the squad. A win on home soil would not just be historic, it would be the crowning achievement of her illustrious career.
Note that the WAFCON final is scheduled to take place at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, Morocco, at 9 p.m. tonight, July 26. The kick-off is 9 p.m. Nigeria time.
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