Morocco head coach Jorge Vilda has expressed confidence in his side’s readiness to make history when they face Nigeria in the final of the 2024 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) this Saturday in Rabat, Bold Sports reports.
Morocco qualified for the final after edging Ghana 4-2 on penalties in a tense encounter at the Stade Moulay Abdellah. Meanwhile, the Super Falcons went through with a 2-1 victory over South Africa at the Starde Larbi Zaouli.
Speaking ahead of the highly anticipated clash, the Spanish tactician acknowledged the pedigree of the Super Falcons but stated that his team have had to work harder during the tournament.
“We have a team in front of us who have won 11 championships, who have had a different path than ours throughout the tournament. I think we have had to work harder each game, that has also made us grow. We also know that they are a well-trained team defensively having conceded only one goal from a penalty,” he said.
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Vilda, who took over the Atlas Lionesses in 2023 praised the fighting spirit and mental strength within his squad, which he says has grown stronger through the adversity of the competition.
“They are a psychologically strong team and I’ve been very proud of the way we never give up. We have overcome some sticky situations up to now. The champions are the players who have helped us to reach our objectives.”
While Nigeria are considered favourites by many, Vilda says Morocco will not be overawed by the occasion or their opponents.
“The psychological aspect overrides the physical one in games like this. 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. Nigeria have showed a lot of improvement through the tournament and overcome some very difficult teams, but we are going to face them without any inferiority complex.”
The former Spain women’s national team manager and Women’s World Cup winner also emphasised the unity within the Moroccan camp, describing the atmosphere as one of collective strength and ambition.
“The atmosphere within the squad is excellent. They have been living like a family for seven weeks, and this unity strengthens the collective spirit.”
Reflecting on his journey with the team, Vilda added that he is proud to be part of a meaningful project with high stakes for the nation’s football development.
“I didn’t hesitate to accept this mission because I discovered a real project to develop women’s football. It allowed me to get out of my comfort zone and grow, both as a coach and as a man. Reaching the final was an ambitious goal, but the players showed a warrior spirit. They are ready to fight to offer this title to the Moroccan people.”
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