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Morocco's Atlas Lionesses showcased incredible resilience and determination in their opening match of the 2024 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), battling back twice to secure a hard-fought draw against Zambia. Forward Sakina Ouzraoui highlighted the team's unwavering spirit, stating they 'showed fight' throughout the encounter.

The match, held in front of a passionate home crowd, was a thrilling affair filled with momentum shifts and captivating moments. Zambia drew first blood, taking an early lead that threatened to derail Morocco's hopes. However, the Atlas Lionesses responded with characteristic grit, levelling the score and demonstrating their ability to compete against one of the continent's strongest teams.

Just when it seemed Morocco had wrestled control of the game, Zambia struck again, regaining the lead and putting the hosts under immense pressure. The tension in the stadium was palpable as the clock ticked down, but Morocco refused to surrender.

The pivotal moment arrived in the form of a stunning long-range strike from Ghizlane Chebbak. The midfielder unleashed a powerful shot that soared over the Zambia goalkeeper, finding the back of the net and sparking wild celebrations amongst the Moroccan players and fans. Chebbak's goal not only equalized the score but also served as a testament to Morocco's never-say-die attitude.

“We knew it would be a tough game against a strong Zambian side,” Ouzraoui told reporters after the match. “But we believed in ourselves and our ability to fight for every ball. We showed that we have the spirit to go far in this competition.”

The draw against Zambia is a positive start for Morocco in the WAFCON, and it sets the stage for an exciting tournament ahead. With a squad brimming with talent and a clear determination to succeed, the Atlas Lionesses are poised to make a significant impact. The team’s resilience, particularly their ability to respond to setbacks, will be crucial as they navigate the challenges of the competition.

This opening match served as a clear indication of the high level of competition expected at WAFCON 2024. Both teams displayed skill, passion, and a relentless desire to win, providing fans with a memorable spectacle. Morocco’s performance, in particular, demonstrated their readiness to host and compete at the highest level, and they will be looking to build on this momentum in their upcoming matches.

The Atlas Lionesses will need to maintain this fighting spirit and continue to improve as a team if they hope to advance through the group stages and challenge for the title. The journey will be demanding, but with the support of their home fans and the unwavering belief in their own abilities, Morocco has every reason to be optimistic about their chances in WAFCON 2024.