Hosts Morocco secured a dramatic 4-2 victory over the Democratic Republic of Congo in a pulsating Group A encounter of the CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2024 on Wednesday evening.

The much-needed win, following their opening 2-2 draw with Zambia, ignited the Atlas Lionesses’ campaign and significantly boosted their chances of progressing in the tournament.

The match at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat sprang to life early, with DR Congo stunning the home crowd in just the sixth minute through Merveille Kanjinga, who capitalized on a precise through ball from Naomie Kabakaba.

However, Morocco, roared on by their fans, responded with authority. Star forward Ghizlane Chebbak proved her class, netting twice before halftime – first with a composed finish in the 25th minute and again from close range in the 43rd, ensuring the Atlas Lionesses took a deserved 2-1 lead into the break.

The second half delivered more twists. DR Congo levelled the scores in the 70th minute when substitute Flavine Mawete fired a clever assist from Marlène Kasaj into the top corner, rekindling hopes for the central Africans.

But Morocco’s determination was unwavering. Five minutes later, Chebbak turned provider, setting up Imène El Ghazouani, whose subsequent cross found Chebbak once more.

The captain then delivered a clinical strike to complete her hat-trick contribution and restore Morocco’s lead at 3-2.

The victory was sealed in the 83rd minute when Anissa Lahmari won a penalty, confidently converted by Yasmin M’Rabet into the bottom corner.

Despite late attempts from DR Congo, Morocco’s defence, marshaled by alert goalkeeper Khadija Er-Rmichi, held firm.

With this result, Morocco now sits atop Group A with four points, level with Zambia who secured a 3-2 win over Senegal in another Group A thriller played concurrently.

Senegal follows with three points, while DR Congo remains at the bottom with zero points after two losses, facing an uphill battle for qualification.