Africa shines as Morocco, Nigeria, South Africa book spots in FIFA Women World Cup round of 16

Africa shines as Morocco, Nigeria, South Africa book spots in FIFA Women World Cup round of 16

After a dismal start to their 2023 FIFA women’s World Cup Campaign, Morocco’s female national team pulled a shocker on Wednesday, defeating Colombia to advance to the round of 16 of the tournament.

Morocco joins The Super Falcons and Bayana Bayana of South Africa at the round of sixteen giving the continent its best World Cup run in the history of female football.

Recall that Nigerian had earlier sealed a round of 16 slots after holding the Republic of Ireland to a goalless draw.

Also, South African ladies advanced to the Round of 16 after stunning European side Italy 3-2 in its final group stage match.

As the tournament advances, Nigeria, South Africa and Morocco will be looking to give the continent its first world cup victory.

Speaking on their qualification to the round of 16, Goal-scorer Anissa Lahmari described Morocco’s victory as an“explosion of joy”.

The World Cup debutants advanced to the last 16 at the expense of Germany after stunning Colombia 1-0 on Thursday.

One of the lowest-ranked teams at the tournament at 72 in the world, Morocco faces France on Tuesday in the knockouts as Nigeria takes on England.