Angu Lesley Ngwa Akonwi
Football Writer,kick442.com-Cameroon
Morocco’s U-17 national team, fresh from their historic triumph as Africa’s champions, are preparing to take their talents to the world stage at the 2025 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar. Ahead of their departure, Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) President Fouzi Lekjaa delivered a rousing message that set the tone for what lies ahead.
“Remove from your minds this idea of just qualifying for the next round. We are Morocco and we play to win, he told the players, emphasizing that merely participating is no longer the standard.
Morocco’s victory at the 2025 U-17 AFCON in April was a landmark moment. In a tense final against Mali, the Atlas Cubs held their nerves in a goalless draw and triumphed 4–2 in the penalty shootout, with goalkeeper Chouaib Bellaarouch saving two crucial penalties to secure the crown. The win was not only Morocco’s first U-17 continental title but a statement of intent for the young generation.
“You are the Champions of Africa, the best generation and I have full faith in you. Don’t let us down,” Lekjaa added, reminding the squad of the responsibility they carry as Africa’s finest youth side.
The Moroccan U-17s have been drawn into Group B of the World Cup, where they will face Japan, Portugal, and New Caledonia. Each team presents unique challenges: Japan with their disciplined technical play, Portugal as a traditional football powerhouse, and New Caledonia as ambitious newcomers eager to make their mark.
“Remember this, those who walk on the pitch never win. Give 300 percent, stay mentally strong, tactically sharp and follow your coach’s instructions to the letter,”Lekjaa warned, underscoring the importance of mental fortitude and tactical discipline.
Tactically, Morocco’s strength lies in their organized defence and resilient goalkeeping, as showcased in the AFCON. However, their offensive creativity and midfield dominance will be key areas to refine if they are to navigate a challenging group stage and beyond.
<span;>> “You are the ones who will defend Morocco’s honor at the next U-20 World Cup, the 2030 generation that will play the World Cup on home soil,” Lekjaa said, linking the U-17 squad to Morocco’s long-term football ambitions.
The 2025 FIFA U-17 World Cup kicks off on November 3, running until November 27. Morocco will look to channel their AFCON-winning momentum into strong performances, aiming to progress deep into the tournament.
“Our meeting point, Insha’Allah, is the final in Qatar, so we return to Rabat and celebrate with your families, with the Moroccan people and with His Majesty the King, as World Champions,” Lekjaa concluded, sending the team off with a clear vision of success.
World Cup Aspirations: Group B Challenges
Building on their continental success, Morocco now sets its sights on the global stage. The 2025 FIFA U-17 World Cup, scheduled from November 3 to 27 in Qatar, will feature 48 teams. Morocco has been placed in Group B alongside:
Japan: A team known for their disciplined and technical style of play.
New Caledonia: A relatively new entrant to the World Cup scene, eager to make an impact.
Portugal: A traditional football powerhouse with a rich youth development system.
This group presents a mix of challenges, with Morocco aiming to leverage their AFCON-winning momentum to advance to the knockout stages.
For Morocco, the Atlas Cubs’ journey to Qatar is not just about results; it is about honouring a legacy, inspiring future generations, and showing the world that African champions can compete at the highest level.
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