Morocco U17 Coach Calls for Greater Effort to Win AFCON Title

National Team Faces Tough Competition in Quarterfinals

Mohammedia, Morocco – Morocco’s U17 national team coach Nabil Baha has emphasized the need for increased effort from his squad to contend for the U17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title. The statement came following their 3-0 victory over Tanzania in Group A’s final match.

Challenges Ahead for Young Atlas Lions

Coach Baha warned that the toughest challenges lie ahead as Morocco prepares to face higher-caliber opponents in the knockout stages. “The hardest part is still to come against opponents of a higher caliber than those in the group phase,” Baha stated at the post-match press conference.

The victory secured Morocco’s qualification for both the U17 AFCON quarterfinals and the upcoming World Cup in Qatar. Baha expressed confidence in his players, particularly praising their offensive performance: “We must still have confidence in the players who showed their high-level talent, particularly in the forward line.”

Tanzanian Coach Praises Moroccan Team

Tanzania’s coach Elieneza Nsanganzelu acknowledged Morocco’s strong organization and talented players. “The Moroccan team is highly organized in all areas and boasts some talented players,” Nsanganzelu commented.

The Tanzanian coach noted that his players gained valuable experience from the tournament, facing strong teams and top-level competition.

Group Stage Results and Quarterfinal Matchup

Morocco finished top of Group A with 7 points, edging out Zambia on goal difference. Zambia secured second place with a 2-1 victory over Uganda in their final group match played in Casablanca.

The Moroccan U17 team, nicknamed the Atlas Cubs, will face South Africa in the quarterfinals next Thursday at 8:00 p.m. in Mohammedia.

This article is based on original reporting by Hespress. Read the full story here.