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Jorge Vilda and Ghizlanne Chebbak Confident and Grateful Ahead of WAFCON 2024 Final vs Nigeria
By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde
Head coach Jorge Vilda and team captain Ghizlane Chebbak addressed the media on Friday ahead of Morocco’s Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2024 final clash against record champions Nigeria.
With the stage set for a thrilling showdown, the Atlas Lionesses exuded both excitement and calm determination as they prepare to chase their first continental title.
Speaking at a packed auditorium, Vilda expressed appreciation for the growing national enthusiasm and support:
“This is a final, and we can feel it — from the full auditorium to the number of media hours dedicated to it. It shows how much this final matters. We’ve made it here by working hard, and in doing so, we’ve made many people happy. The team is prepared and confident.”
On Nigeria, Vilda acknowledged the Super Falcons’ pedigree:
“We are facing a team that has won nine titles. Their journey has been different, perhaps more straightforward. Ours has involved struggle and growth. Nigeria is very strong in midfield, very compact defensively — they’ve only conceded once in open play. But we know their strengths and are ready to play with our hearts.”
Addressing fitness concerns in the squad, Vilda revealed:
“There are still doubts about four players. Today’s training will be decisive. But even if they can’t play, we have options. Mentally, the squad is in a great place. We’ve built a family environment over these seven weeks — full of joy, hard work, and togetherness. That’s been one of our greatest strengths.”
Morocco captain Ghizlane Chebbak echoed her coach’s sentiments:
“I’m happy to be here and really looking forward to the match. It’s going to be a great contest, and we hope to win.”
Chebbak also highlighted the personal and collective growth of the squad off the pitch:
“We’re a young group with a lot of opportunities — not just in football but also in education and languages. It’s been an enriching journey, and we need support and encouragement to keep going.”
Vilda concluded by reiterating his vision for the team’s style and identity:
“We want to showcase a Morocco that attacks with intent and defends solidly. We will play our football, regardless of who we face. This is a final, and we’re ready to deliver our best version.”
The Atlas Lionesses will face Nigeria in Saturday’s WAFCON final at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat, aiming to win their first-ever title on home soil and avenge their 2022 semifinal penalty shootout defeat to the same opponents.
