Morocco secured a spot in the World Cup last 16, joining Colombia, following a 1-0 victory in Perth. Anissa Lahmari’s late first-half goal proved decisive in sealing Morocco’s progression.
During the initial period, Morocco dominated proceedings, and their persistence paid off when Lahmari tapped in after Catalina Perez saved Ghizlane Chebbak’s initial penalty kick.
In the second half, Colombia mounted attempts to level the score on several occasions. However, goalkeeper Khadija Er-Rmichi emerged as the standout performer, safeguarding Morocco’s lead. This achievement saw tournament debutants Morocco advance to the knockout stages, at the expense of two-time winners Germany.
Morocco’s pathway to advancement necessitated a victory while hoping Germany would not triumph over South Korea, which indeed transpired as the latter match ended in a 1-1 draw, ultimately favoring Morocco’s progression.
Morocco nearly took the lead within the first moments of the game when Ibtissam Jraidi unleashed a shot from a narrow angle, but Perez deflected it for a corner.
In the closing moments of the first half, Morocco was awarded a penalty after Jraidi was fouled by Daniela Arias in the box. Chebbak took the penalty kick, aiming for the bottom corner, but Perez thwarted it. Following a misdirected attempt at goal from the rebound, Lahmari capitalized on the loose ball to find the net.
Around the 60-minute mark, Colombia presented their first significant chance. Daniela Montoya delivered a close-range shot at Er-Rmichi, with Lorena Bedoya’s subsequent effort slightly missing the target.
Building pressure, the South American side came close to equalizing once more. Mayra Ramirez’s powerful shot was deflected wide by Er-Rmichi.
Continuing their offensive, Colombia was close to scoring again, with Linda Caicedo receiving an opportunity. However, her shot was tipped over the bar, and Ramirez’s attempt was denied by the post.
In stoppage time, Morocco had an opportunity to extend their lead to 2-0, but Rosella Ayane’s shot from inside the area was directed straight at Perez.