Atlas Lionesses Held by Mali in Friendly Despite Dominance

Morocco’s women’s national team were held to a 1-1 draw by Mali on Friday at Stade Moulay El Hassan in Rabat, after a game in which the Atlas Lionesses dominated without prevailing.

Morocco came into the match with clear intent, creating several chances through Ibtissam Jraidi, Mrabat, and Sanae Mssoudy. Still, the Malian goalkeeper stood firm, managing every chance that came her way.

Mali, meanwhile, relied on quick counterattacks. Their most dangerous one came in the 36th minute, but it was an offside, though Khadija Errmichi still pulled off a strong save 1v1 with the attacker.

Just when it seemed the first half would end even, Mali struck in. stoppage time (45 ‘+4). A surprising cross into the box found Aïssata Traoré, and she finished it with a strong header that gave her side the lead.

Morocco came out even more offensively in the second half, pressing high in search of an equaliser. The team relied heavily on crosses into the Malian box, looking to create danger in the air. 

The breakthrough eventually came around the 60th minute after a beautiful dribble from Ouzraoui, who drove into the area before delivering a precise pass to Ibtissam Jraidi. The striker gave it no time, striking it first time and leaving the goalkeeper with no chance. 

The match continued with many chances from the Moroccan side. There was a clear improvement in performance, with more harmony in the way the team played, but despite all the efforts, the score remained 1-1.

The Moroccan women’s national team continues its preparations at a high pace, with the clear objective of entering the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in the best possible condition, and confirming its ambition to go far in the tournament at home next summer.

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