U17 World Cup: Morocco sets the tone!

Africa 21 October 2025 at 09:29

Mahdi Zakaria LAZRI

News Editor

Moroccan football is gearing up for another major showdown on the international stage. After the historic U20 triumph, it's now the U17 generation's turn to step up, with all eyes on the World Cup set to take place next month in Qatar. This youthful squad, buoyed by a genuine wave of popular support, knows that expectations will be sky-high in a tournament where every detail matters and mistakes are ruthlessly punished.

Head coach Nabil Baha is fully aware of the challenge and prefers to temper expectations. "The U17 World Cup is a whole different ball game compared to the U20s. There are 48 teams and every squad is at full strength. The competition will be tough, but we'll give everything to go the distance. We have the tools to do it," he emphasized.

Drawn into a tough group alongside Portugal, Japan, and New Caledonia, the Young Lions will have no room for error. Especially since, unlike the U20 tournament, this edition brings together the world's elite with no major absentees. To write a new chapter in their history, the Moroccans will have to rely on their unity, discipline, and the growing ambition that now drives all of the Kingdom's national teams.

See also: Women's CAN qualifiers – Algeria prepares for their showdown with Cameroon

Related teams and leagues

Morocco U17

World Cup U17