KEHINDE FAJOBI
Host Morocco kicked off the Women Africa Cup of Nations with a 1-0 win over debutants Burkina Faso on Saturday at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
Morocco striker Ghizlane Chebbak scored the only goal in the 29th minute after the referee gave the Moroccans a free-kick.
A free-kick had first been given to Morocco, taken by Chebbak which was caught by Burkina Faso goalkeeper Mariam Ouatarra but the referee checked the VAR to ascertain if the foul had been committed in Box 18.
Another free-kick was given after the VAR check which was scored by Chebbak as the ball slipped under the arm of Burkina Faso goalkeeper, handing the Moroccans their first victory at the tournament since beating Egypt 4-1 in 1998.
Morocco will face the next group opponent Uganda on Tuesday, while Burkina Faso hopes for redemption against Senegal.