Morocco Became 2025 U-17 AFCON Champions in Historic Win
In a moment remembered in Moroccan football history, Morocco's U-17 team, also known lovingly as the Atlas Cubs, won the nation's first ever U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) crown. The deciding final, conducted on April 19, 2025, at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium, Casablanca, came to a surprising end when Morocco edged Mali aside in a thrilling penalty shootout in a closely-fought 0-0 thriller at regular time.
The Atlas Cubs would not yield, though, coming out 4-0 on penalties, topping a tournament full of grit, collaboration, and tactical sophistication. In winning, the young Moroccan team created an unforgetable record that stood by itself aside from celebrating winning for the first time with victory for host Morocco on a sweeter occasion still as host.
A Tournament of Milestones
The 2025 U-17 AFCON edition was also historic with the expanded format of 16 sides, providing wider exposure for Africa's young stars to thrive. Hosted across four Moroccan cities of Casablanca, El Jadida, Mohammedia, and Berrechid, the championship showcased the passion and dedication of the country for football development and infrastructure.
Morocco was placed in Group A along with Uganda, Tanzania, and Zambia. They started off by winning their debut match against Uganda in a tough battle, followed by good performances to take the group. Their journey to the final was with a decent show in the knock-out stages as they overpowered tough opponents and proved themselves to be among the most organized sides in the tournament.
Tactical Discipline and Determination
With the tutelage of head coach Nabil Baha, a former Moroccan international, the team demonstrated tactical maturity and calmness well beyond their years. Coach Baha emphasized the strength of his team right from the start, often commenting on their discipline, team spirit, and determination to realize success on home soil.
In the last, Morocco faced a powerful Malian squad that is known for their attacking style and physicality. The match was a closely fought contest, with both teams creating chances but failing to capitalize. The Moroccan defense, led by captain Yassine El-Fahli, was rock-solid throughout the 90 minutes, while goalkeeper Chouaib Bellaarouch was a wall at the back.
When the match went to penalties, Bellaarouch emerged as the hero, saving two spot-kicks in unflappable calm. Morocco's four penalties were all netted with precision, winning them the shootout 4-0 and causing pandemonium in the stands and across the country.
Rising Stars and Awards
It was also a stage for some individual excellence. Midfielder Abdellah Ouazane received the Player of the Tournament award for his vision, leadership, and technical ability. His presence in the middle of the park played a key role in determining the pace of games and dictating games for Morocco.
Chouaib Bellaarouch was awarded the Golden Glove for his outstanding performances, particularly in the final, where his heroics proved to be crucial to Morocco's first-ever victory. Baha, the coach, was also given the Coach of the Tournament award for acknowledging his efforts in creating a cohesive and disciplined team.
The Road Ahead
With this victory, Morocco not only lifted the U-17 AFCON trophy but also earned qualification to the FIFA U-17 World Cup to be staged later in the year in Qatar. This will be a golden opportunity for the Atlas Cubs youngsters to test themselves against the world's best and gain valuable experience at international level.
Morocco's triumph is a testament to the country's growing investment in youth development and football infrastructure. It heralds a promising future for Moroccan football, as a new crop of players take up the mantle.
Before the celebrations die down, the Atlas Cubs have become symbols of pride and hope, proof that with vision, endeavour, and unity, history can be forged on home turf.
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Morocco Became 2025 U-17 AFCON Champions in Historic Win
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