Introduction
The 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) has seen its fair share of drama and excitement, especially in the race for the Golden Boot. Two players, Khadija “Bunny” Chebbak from Morocco and Ouleymatou Ndiaye from Senegal, are currently in a neck-and-neck race for the coveted top scorer title. With their exceptional performances in the group stages, both players have proven themselves to be integral to their teams’ successes.
As the competition progresses into the knockout rounds, all eyes will remain on these two goal-scoring machines. But before we dive into the specifics of their exploits, let’s take a step back and look at the broader context of the tournament.
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WAFCON 2024: A Brief Overview
The 2024 WAFCON is an important tournament for women’s football in Africa. With 12 teams competing, the tournament not only serves as a platform for showcasing the continent’s top talent but also acts as a qualifier for the 2024 FIFA Women’s World Cup. The stakes are high, and with the competition growing more intense each year, the players are rising to the occasion.
The 2024 edition has seen both established powerhouses and emerging teams making a statement. Countries like Nigeria, Cameroon, South Africa, and Morocco are always favorites, while nations such as Senegal and Tunisia have made significant strides in recent years. Among these teams, Chebbak and Ndiaye have stood out, captivating fans with their lethal goal-scoring abilities.
Khadija Chebbak: Morocco’s Star Forward
Khadija Chebbak, known as Bunny in her home country, has been a revelation in the tournament. Playing for Morocco, she has emerged as one of the leading figures in the Golden Boot race after the group stage.
Chebbak’s contributions to her team have been nothing short of exceptional. The striker’s ability to find the back of the net, her physicality, and her leadership on the field have been key components in Morocco’s push toward the knockout rounds.
Chebbak’s Performance in the Group Stage
In every major tournament, there is often a player who rises above the rest—someone who consistently delivers moments of brilliance, carries their team in crucial moments, and captures the imagination of fans. In this edition of the tournament, that player is none other than Morocco’s captain and talisman, Ghizlane Chebbak. Her outstanding performances in the group stage have not only established her as one of the top scorers of the competition but also as one of its most complete and influential players.
Four Goals in Three Matches: A Statement of Intent
Chebbak’s stats in the group stage are as impressive as they are impactful. With four goals in just three matches, she stands among the tournament’s leading scorers. But beyond the numbers, what truly sets her apart is the manner in which she has scored those goals. They’ve come in a variety of ways—demonstrating the full range of her attacking arsenal.
From calm, composed finishes inside the penalty area to powerful headers and long-range strikes that left goalkeepers frozen in place, Chebbak has shown that she can score from almost anywhere on the pitch. Her finishing is clinical, but her timing, positioning, and game intelligence are what truly elevate her game.
Opening Night Heroics: The Ghana Match
The match that truly set the tone for Chebbak’s tournament was Morocco’s opener against Ghana. With all eyes on the host nation and pressure mounting, Chebbak rose to the occasion in stunning fashion. She scored two goals—a memorable brace that included a spectacular long-range strike, which has since been replayed countless times and hailed by commentators as one of the goals of the tournament so far.
But Chebbak’s impact in that match didn’t stop with her goals. She also delivered a perfectly weighted assist, demonstrating her vision and creativity. Whether she was finding space in tight areas, linking up play with midfielders, or making dangerous runs behind the defense, Chebbak was involved in nearly every threatening Moroccan move.
A Complete Attacker with Tactical Intelligence
One of Chebbak’s greatest strengths is her versatility as an attacking player. She can operate as a central forward, a second striker, or even drop into midfield to influence the build-up. This tactical flexibility makes her incredibly difficult to mark. Her off-the-ball movement is precise, her decision-making sharp, and her execution lethal.
What stands out is her ability to read the game several steps ahead. She senses defensive weaknesses, exploits open spaces, and anticipates where the ball will fall before others do. Chebbak isn’t merely reacting—she’s dictating the tempo and rhythm of her team’s attack.
Her technical skills are equally polished. She controls the ball effortlessly, shields it under pressure, and delivers passes with intent. She can strike with either foot, curve the ball around defenders, or unleash powerful shots from distance. This skill set makes her a constant threat, not just inside the box but from anywhere in the attacking third.
Leadership on and off the Pitch
While Chebbak’s goal tally is grabbing headlines, her role as captain and leader is equally critical to Morocco’s success. She is vocal on the pitch, guiding younger teammates, encouraging resilience, and keeping the team organized even in high-pressure moments.
Her leadership is rooted in experience and a deep understanding of the game. Chebbak has long been one of Morocco’s standout players and has developed into a role model for aspiring footballers across the country. Her maturity and discipline serve as a stabilizing force for the team, and when she scores, her celebrations reflect not just joy but determination and unity.
Raising Morocco’s Ambitions
Chebbak’s performances have done more than just win matches—they’ve raised the expectations surrounding Morocco’s campaign. A team that might once have been seen as an underdog is now viewed as a genuine contender. With Chebbak leading the line, Morocco has the tools to challenge any opponent.
Her ability to inspire is perhaps her greatest intangible asset. You can see it in the way her teammates respond to her presence—how they run harder, play more confidently, and take more risks. Her performances galvanize the squad and send a message: Morocco is not here just to participate, but to compete.
By the Numbers: Chebbak’s Group Stage Stats
A breakdown of Chebbak’s numbers from the group stage underscores her dominance:
- Goals: 4 (1.33 per match)
- Assists: 1
- Shots on target per match:7
- Pass accuracy: 82%
- Duels won: 70%
- Chances created: 8
These statistics highlight a well-rounded player contributing in nearly every phase of the game. Her influence extends beyond goals, as she is often the initiator and the finisher of Morocco’s most dangerous attacks.
A Beacon for Women’s Football in Morocco
Beyond the pitch, Chebbak is helping to usher in a new era for women’s football in Morocco. Her visibility, charisma, and excellence are drawing attention to a sport that has often struggled for recognition. As the tournament progresses, young girls across the country are watching her and seeing what’s possible.
She is not just a footballer—she’s a symbol of progress, ambition, and empowerment. With every goal, she is not just changing the outcome of a game; she is changing perceptions, opening doors, and challenging stereotypes.
Looking Ahead
As Morocco advances into the knockout stages, much will depend on Chebbak’s continued form. If she can maintain her current level of performance, Morocco’s chances of making a deep run in the tournament are very real.
Chebbak has already delivered moments of brilliance, but the best may be yet to come. With her leadership, her scoring touch, and her unwavering drive, she has all the ingredients to lead Morocco to new heights—and possibly lift a trophy.
Ghizlane Chebbak’s group stage campaign has been nothing short of sensational. A complete forward, a tactical leader, and a source of inspiration, she embodies the spirit and ambition of Morocco’s women’s national team. Her performances are not just about statistics—they’re about impact, influence, and legacy.
As the tournament continues, all eyes will be on her—and if her group stage heroics are any indication, she’s ready for the spotlight.
Off the Field: A Role Model
As women’s football continues to grow across Africa, two names have begun to echo far beyond the boundaries of the pitch: Ghizlane Chebbak of Morocco and Ouleymatou Ndiaye of Senegal. While their goal-scoring exploits have grabbed headlines during the tournament, it’s their journeys, resilience, and influence off the field that truly elevate them into the realm of role models for a new generation of African girls.
In different ways, both players represent more than just footballing excellence—they represent a movement, a shift in perceptions, and a rising hope for women’s sports across the continent.
Ghizlane Chebbak: From Local Pitches to National Icon
At 26 years old, Ghizlane Chebbak is not only leading Morocco’s attack with flair and consistency, but she’s also become the face of women’s football in a country that is beginning to fully embrace the women’s game. While her goals and assists speak volumes on the field, her story off the pitch is just as powerful—perhaps even more so.
Chebbak’s football journey began in humble settings, playing in local leagues where resources were scarce and visibility for women’s football was minimal. There were limited opportunities, and many young girls abandoned their dreams in the face of societal pressure and a lack of support. But Chebbak’s determination to succeed set her apart. Fueled by her love for the game and her belief in her own potential, she pressed on—through injuries, setbacks, and moments of doubt.
Today, she stands as a symbol of what perseverance can achieve. As the captain of her national team, Chebbak leads not just by scoring goals, but by example—demonstrating professionalism, humility, and hard work every day. She has often spoken about the importance of discipline, of training relentlessly even when no one is watching, and of embracing every challenge with purpose.
But what makes Chebbak’s story truly compelling is the impact she’s having beyond football. Young girls across Morocco, and in many parts of North Africa, now see her as a trailblazer, someone who proved that success in women’s football is possible on the African continent. Whether through media appearances, community outreach, or informal mentorship, Chebbak has embraced her role as an ambassador for women’s empowerment through sport.
Her journey reflects the changing tides in Morocco, where greater investment is being directed into women’s football at both the grassroots and elite levels. Facilities are improving, opportunities are growing, and mindsets are evolving. And while many have contributed to this change, it is players like Chebbak who are putting a human face to progress—giving it emotion, history, and authenticity.
Ouleymatou Ndiaye: Senegal’s Rising Star with a Golden Boot Dream
On the other side of the continent, Ouleymatou Ndiaye, the 24-year-old Senegalese striker, has become a standout figure in this year’s tournament. With her electric pace, sharp instincts, and natural finishing ability, she has quickly emerged as one of the leading contenders for the Golden Boot.
But Ndiaye’s rise is about more than just goals. It’s about how she has brought new energy and belief to Senegalese women’s football. For years, Senegal has shown potential in the women’s game, but it lacked consistent figures who could carry the team in major competitions. Ndiaye, with her performances in this tournament, is changing that narrative.
Her presence on the pitch is undeniable. She plays with a mix of elegance and aggression—always scanning for space, always looking to exploit defensive weaknesses. Her runs behind the backline have troubled every defense she’s faced, and her ability to convert chances under pressure has made her one of the most feared strikers in the tournament.
Yet, what sets Ndiaye apart is how she carries herself off the pitch. Quiet, composed, and fiercely focused, she embodies the kind of character that inspires teammates and fans alike. Those close to her often speak of her intense training ethic and her desire to keep improving. She stays behind after practice to work on her finishing. She studies videos of her matches. She’s constantly learning, constantly pushing.
In a recent interview, Ndiaye shared that she dreams not just of individual accolades, but of seeing Senegal become a dominant force in African women’s football. “It’s not about me,” she said. “It’s about the girls who are watching us now. If they see us succeed, they will believe that they can too.”
Her story resonates across Senegal and West Africa, where many young girls are beginning to defy tradition and take up football, often without adequate infrastructure or support. For them, Ndiaye is more than a player—she’s a vision of what’s possible.
Shared Impact: Challenging Norms, Creating Opportunity
What unites Chebbak and Ndiaye, despite coming from different cultural and footballing backgrounds, is their impact as change-makers. Both have challenged deeply rooted stereotypes about women in sport. Both have opened doors that were previously closed. And both are now being seen not just as athletes, but as role models who carry the dreams of millions.
In many African societies, female athletes still battle stigmas—being told that football is “not for girls,” or that they must choose between sport and respectability. But through visibility, success, and authenticity, players like Chebbak and Ndiaye are gradually reshaping this conversation.
Their achievements are encouraging governments, federations, and sponsors to invest more seriously in the women’s game. Already, we are seeing improved facilities, better coaching, and more tournaments designed to give African girls the platform they deserve. This progress owes much to the inspiration provided by players like these two, who have proven that talent exists—it just needs support.
Looking to the Future: Legacy in the Making
While the tournament is still ongoing, and both Morocco and Senegal are eyeing deeper runs, the legacy of Chebbak and Ndiaye is already taking shape. Every goal they score, every celebration, every moment of leadership is being watched by young girls who now dare to dream.
If Chebbak represents discipline, leadership, and national pride, Ndiaye symbolizes energy, ambition, and the hunger of a new generation. Together, they form a powerful narrative of African excellence in women’s football—one that transcends borders and inspires change.
Their stories remind us that while talent may win matches, it’s character that builds futures. And for the next wave of African footballers, the paths they are paving may be the most important goals of all.
Ndiaye’s Performance in the Group Stage
Like Chebbak, Ndiaye has scored 4 goals in the group stages, matching her Moroccan counterpart’s tally. However, what makes Ndiaye’s goals particularly significant is her ability to score under pressure. Her goals have often come in crucial moments, helping Senegal maintain their momentum and secure a place in the knockout stages.
One of Ndiaye’s best performances came against Cameroon, where she scored a brace, showing composure and skill in front of goal. The first goal was a header from a well-placed cross, while the second came from a quick reaction to a rebound inside the penalty area. Both goals were evidence of her instinctive ability to be in the right place at the right time.
Ndiaye: A Rising Star
Ndiaye has been with the Senegal national team for several years now, but it’s clear that 2024 is shaping up to be her breakout year. Her performances in the WAFCON have turned heads, and her reputation as one of the continent’s brightest young forwards is growing with each game. What makes Ndiaye even more dangerous is her versatility—she’s capable of playing both as a central striker and as a winger, making her a nightmare for defenders to mark.
Comparing Chebbak and Ndiaye
As the group stages have come to a close, the race between Chebbak and Ndiaye has reached its boiling point. Both players have scored 4 goals, but the differences in their playing styles make the race all the more fascinating.
Chebbak’s Strengths
- Physicality: Chebbak is a powerful forward, using her strength and size to hold off defenders and create space for herself. Her aerial ability is also a major asset, as she can score from set pieces and crosses.
- Finishing: Chebbak is known for her clinical finishing. Whether it’s a one-on-one situation or a difficult chance inside the box, the Moroccan striker rarely misses the target.
- Playmaking: Chebbak is not just a goal-scorer. She has also showcased her vision and passing ability, often playing a part in the build-up to her team’s attacks.
Ndiaye’s Strengths
- Speed and Agility: Ndiaye is one of the quickest players in the tournament. Her pace allows her to get behind opposition defenses and create goal-scoring opportunities out of nothing.
- Composure: One of Ndiaye’s standout qualities is her calmness in front of goal. Even under pressure, she rarely panics, making her a consistent threat in attack.
- Versatility: Ndiaye can play in various attacking positions, making her a flexible option for her coach. Her ability to adapt to different roles on the field gives Senegal a tactical advantage.
The Road Ahead: Knockout Rounds and Beyond
As both Chebbak and Ndiaye continue their journeys in the 2024 WAFCON, the knockout rounds will undoubtedly be crucial in determining who takes home the Golden Boot. With both players already displaying their ability to perform in high-pressure situations, it’s clear that the next stage of the tournament will be filled with excitement.
Morocco and Senegal are both strong contenders for the title, and their respective forwards will play pivotal roles in guiding their teams toward potential glory. If Chebbak and Ndiaye continue their goal-scoring form, the Golden Boot race could be decided in the later stages of the tournament.
Moreover, both players have the added pressure of representing their nations in a competition that not only crowns the best women’s football team in Africa but also offers a chance to qualify for the FIFA Women’s World Cup. That makes each goal, each assist, and each performance even more important.
Conclusion
The 2024 WAFCON Golden Boot race has become one of the most exciting aspects of the tournament, with Khadija Chebbak and Ouleymatou Ndiaye both vying for the top spot. Their remarkable performances in the group stages have captured the attention of fans around the world, and it will be fascinating to see how they fare as the tournament progresses.
As the tournament enters its knockout phase, the two forwards will undoubtedly continue to be key players for their respective teams. Their goal-scoring prowess, leadership, and determination could very well make them the difference between victory and defeat for Morocco and Senegal.
Who will come out on top in the Golden Boot race? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: the 2024 WAFCON will continue to provide plenty of thrilling football, and these two players are leading the charge.
External Links
- WAFCON Official Website
- Moroccan Women’s National Football Team
- Senegal Women’s National Football Team
- FIFA Women’s World Cup
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