2023 Women’s World Cup: Morocco 1-0 Colombia: Morocco secure their spot in last-16
Morocco’s World Cup debut has been exhilarating, securing a spot in the last-16 by defeating Colombia 1-0 – although the South Americans are also through to the last-16 and have topped Group H.
Germany, two-time world cup winners, and South Korea are both out of the world cup, coming in third and fourth respectively in Group H.
Morocco’s win plus Germany’s 1-1 draw with South Korea paved the way for Morocco to enter the knockout rounds as group runners-up.
Anissa Lahmari’s rebound goal, following captain Ghizlane Chebbak’s saved penalty, sealed the thrilling victory for Morocco.
Morocco’s opening game to the 2023 World Cup saw them lose 6-0
After an inspiring comeback from a 6-0 opening loss to Germany, Morocco gears up to face France in a highly-anticipated showdown in Adelaide.
Colombia, boasting two wins and edging out Morocco on goal difference, sets their sights on an earlier clash with Jamaica in Melbourne on 8 August.
Growth of the women’s game
The 2023 Women’s World Cup was packed with debutants who have given some of the top teams in the world a real run for their money. Amongst some of the biggest World Cup shocks, is Germany and Brazil’s exit in the group stages (it’s the first time Brazil hasn’t progressed out the groups in 28 years and the first time in Germany’s history). The reigning world champions USA barely made it through to the last-16 after clinging on to a goalless draw against Portugal.
All of this points to one very exciting truth – women’s football is rising and is no longer dominated by a handful of big names.
From the opening whistle, Morocco showed their intent, creating early chances that put their opponents on the back foot. Ibtissam Jraidi’s third-minute shot tested Colombian goalkeeper Catalina Perez, while Chebbak’s clever corner nearly caught the keeper off guard. The breakthrough came when Jraidi was brought down in the box, leading to a penalty. Although Chebbak’s initial spot-kick was saved, Anissa Lahmari’s quick reflexes ensured the rebound found the back of the net.
As Germany struggled to find a winner against South Korea, Morocco’s path to the knockout stage became a reality.
Morocco’s journey exemplifies the magic of the Women’s World Cup, where underdogs rise to the occasion, creating unforgettable moments on the grandest stage of women’s football. As the knockout stage beckons, football fans eagerly await more surprises and heroic performances, as the sport continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the globe.
Colombia must refocus
The stakes were high for Colombia as they faced the possibility of needing a point to secure the top spot in Group H if Germany emerged victorious. Manager Nelson Abadia placed his bets on a strong starting XI, featuring four players teetering on the edge of missing their next match due to yellow cards.
The gamble became evident when full-back Manuela Vanegas, the hero who scored the 97th-minute winner against Germany, received an early booking in the second half, ruling her out for the upcoming clash with Jamaica.
Abadia’s concern deepened as his side displayed a muted attacking performance, with star winger Linda Caicedo fading into anonymity after her brilliant showings in the opening two matches. The midfield lacked the bite and dynamism they showcased in Sydney.
Nonetheless, Colombia found inspiration in the second half, buoyed by the boisterous support of their colourful fans. Their renewed energy saw Daniela Montoya’s low drive saved by Khadija Er-Rmichi’s boot, and Lorena Bedoya narrowly missed a chance to score. They were inches away from a goal when Mayra Ramirez’s attempt hit the post from a tight angle.
However, the team’s upcoming challenge lies in rediscovering the verve and flair they exhibited against the Germans, as they aim to stay on course for a potential quarter-final showdown with England.
