Banda and Kundananji Score as Zambia Held to Draw by Morocco in WAFCON

In the opening match of 2024 WAFCON at Rabat Olympic Stadium, Zambia had to settle for a 2-2 draw against hosts Morocco. Two NWSL players — Barbra Banda from Orlando Pride and Racheal Kundananji from Bay FC — scored for Zambia.

Banda opened the scoring in the first minute with a long-range shot that Morocco goalkeeper Er-Rmichi failed to handle. However, the lead lasted only until the 12th minute — Ibtissam Jraïdi equalized from the penalty spot after a foul committed by Grace Chanda.

Zambia regained the lead in the 27th minute through excellent combination play between Banda and Kundananji. The advantage held until the 87th minute, when Ghizlane Chebbak scored a spectacular long-range goal that determined the final result.

Despite having only 31% possession, Zambia recorded 11 shots with 6 on target — more than the hosts who managed 8 shots with 3 on goal.

This draw gives both teams one point in Group A. The other two teams in the group — Senegal and DR Congo — will play the following day.