Morocco’s U-17 national football team secured its first-ever Africa Cup of Nations title in thrilling fashion, defeating Mali 4-2 in a penalty shootout after a goalless draw in regulation time. The final, held at the packed El Bachir Stadium in Mohammedia, brought a dramatic close to a tournament hosted by the Kingdom from March 30 to April 19.
In a match marked by intensity and tactical discipline, the young Atlas Lions, under the guidance of coach Naby Baha, faced stiff resistance from a well-organized Malian side. Mali relied on counter-attacks and nearly found the back of the net on several occasions, only to be denied by Moroccan goalkeeper Chouaib Belaroush, who emerged as one of the standout performers of the tournament.
Morocco created several dangerous opportunities through attackers Ziyad Baha, Abdellah Ouzzane, and Ilyas Belmokhtar, who consistently tested Malian keeper Lamine Senaba.
As the match progressed into the final quarter-hour, both teams exchanged attacks in search of a breakthrough, but neither could convert, sending the final to penalties.
Ziyad Baha opened the shootout for Morocco with a composed finish, matching Mali’s first successful attempt. Belaroush then made a crucial save on Mali’s second penalty, setting the tone. Zakaria El Khallifi and Amine Wahbi added to Morocco’s tally, while Belaroush denied Mali again on their third attempt. After Mali converted their fourth kick, Ilyas Belmokhtar calmly slotted home the decisive penalty, sparking celebrations in the stands and on the field.
The win marks a historic achievement for Moroccan football, as the U-17 team claims its first continental title, capping off a successful tournament both on and off the pitch.
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