CAN U17: the Atlas Lion Cubs finish at the foot of the podium despite world qualification

The Moroccan U17 national team concluded its participation in the U17 Africa Cup of Nations in fourth place, after a 2-0 defeat against Egypt in the classification match played Monday evening at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Salé. In front of their home crowd, the Atlas Lion Cubs failed to find the necessary resources to win the bronze medal, losing to a solid and efficient Egyptian team.

Un scénario difficile à domicile

In the 33rd minute, Mohamed El Sayed opened the scoring for Egypt, placing the young Moroccans in a delicate position. Despite the Lion Cubs’ efforts to get back into the game, the Egyptian lock never gave way. It was at the very end of the match, in the 90th + 12th minute, that Ahmed Beshir definitively sealed the fate of the match by doubling the lead for the Pharaons U17. A cruel conclusion for the coach’s teammates and for the supporters present at the Mohammed VI Complex, who hoped to see their team get on the podium in this continental competition organized at home.

Read also: 2026 World Cup: Morocco launches its preparation course

The main thing is elsewhere: heading for Qatar

If the disappointment is real, it must be put into perspective with regard to the journey accomplished by the Cubs throughout the competition. By reaching the quarter-finals of this U17 CAN, Morocco won its ticket for the U17 World Cup, scheduled for Qatar in 2026. This is the primary objective of any continental tournament at this age level, and the young Moroccans have fully accomplished it. This global qualification represents a fantastic opportunity for these budding talents to compete against the best nations in the world and continue their development on the international stage. The CAN U17 final will pit Senegal against Tanzania on Tuesday, two nations which have had a remarkable run throughout the tournament organized on Moroccan soil.