The young Morroco have clinched their first-ever U-17 Africa Cup of Nations title on home soil after defeating Mali 4-2 on penalties following a tense 0-0 draw in Saturday’s final. Goalkeeper Chouaib Bellaarouche emerged as the hero for the hosts, making two outstanding saves during the penalty shootout.
The match was evenly matched, with Mali appearing to have taken the lead through Soumaila Fane, who steered home a close-range effort from a right-flank cross. However, VAR correctly ruled out the goal as the Malian attacker had used his hand to redirect the ball. Morocco’s closest chance to break the deadlock in the first half was through Ziyad Baha, who met a low cross from the right and fired an effort toward the bottom corner, but Mali goalkeeper Lamine Sinaba produced a fine save.
In the penalty shootout, Morocco’s players showed remarkable composure, with Ziyad Baha, Zakari El Khalfioui, Amine Ouahabi, and Ilies Belmokhtar all converting their spot-kicks with confidence. Belmokhtar stylishly finished off the win with a ‘Panenka’ penalty, sending the home supporters into raptures.
Coach Nabil Baha praised his players’ composure after the match, highlighting Morocco’s defensive solidity, which conceded just one goal in the entire competition. For Mali, it was heartbreak in their fifth final appearance at this level, despite dominating large portions of the match.
The victory ends Morocco’s long wait for continental glory, coming just two years after they finished as runners-up to Senegal in the previous edition. Both finalists, along with Burkina Faso, South Africa, Zambia, Ivory Coast, Senegal, Tunisia, Egypt, and Uganda, have qualified for the FIFA U-17 World Cup, which will be held in Qatar in November.
The victory parade of the Atlas Lions will be a grand celebration, marking a historic moment for Moroccan football. With this win, Morocco’s young team has sent a strong message to the football world, showcasing their skills and determination. The team’s defensive solidity and composure under pressure have been key factors in their success, and they will look to build on this momentum as they prepare for the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar.