Morocco’s recent home defeat raises questions about Jorge Vilda’s future.

The result is particularly damaging because the hosts appeared to have the clearest route to the title they have ever had. Morocco had defeated reigning champions South Africa 2-1 in the quarter-finals, while Cameroon eliminated fellow favourites Nigeria with a 1-0 victory. Morocco therefore entered the semi-final as the leading contenders.

However, they were unable to turn that favourable draw into a place in the final. Cameroon goalkeeper Michaely Bihina played a decisive role, producing another outstanding performance after also excelling against Nigeria. She saved Fatima Tagnaout’s penalty in the 117th minute, denying Morocco a chance to win the match, before stopping three attempts during the shootout.

Yet the defeat cannot be explained solely by bad luck – or “pas de chance”, as the French description puts it. The bigger issue is why Morocco had to wait until the closing stages of extra time before creating a sustained opportunity to take control of a match in which they had been expected to dominate.

The hosts won numerous throw-ins in the final third and earned eight corners, but they created few clear chances. Their best opportunity in open play came early on, when Sanaa Mssoudy struck the post with a header.

Sakina Ouzraoui provided some threat with her runs, while Hanane Ait El Haj repeatedly looked to create openings with crosses. Too often, though, they were left to carry Morocco’s attacking burden alone. African Ballon d’Or winner Ghizlane Chebbak also endured a disappointing evening from set pieces. After struggling with her corners, she eventually stopped taking them before being substituted.

Cameroon were not merely defending for long periods. During spells, particularly in the second half, they controlled possession and forced Morocco to retreat and rely on counter-attacks.

The late introduction of Tagnaout briefly changed the game. Within minutes of coming on, she helped inspire a more aggressive Morocco, who produced more danger inside the Cameroon penalty area than they had managed throughout much of the match.

The finishing, however, remained short of what was required. Mssoudy headed weakly from close range, while two efforts from Imane Saoud were blocked. A similar pattern developed during the second half of extra time, leaving Morocco’s supporters to wonder whether the hosts could have won had they increased the tempo earlier.

For several senior players, this may have been their final opportunity to win the tournament at home. Ghizlane Chebbak and goalkeeper Khadija Er-Rmichi are both 36, while Ibtissam Jraidi is 33. Ait El Haj, aged 31, has been one of Morocco’s best performers in the competition, contributing four assists and one goal.

With the Women’s World Cup 2027 in Brazil only a year away, a complete overhaul may not necessarily be the immediate answer. But head coach Jorge Vilda will face heightened scrutiny after another failure to meet Morocco’s ambitions, and significant decisions cannot be ruled out following a result that will be regarded as a major disappointment.