U17 AFCON: Ogboji’s Own goal sends Morocco to the Next Stage

Morocco has sailed through to the quarter finals of the 2023 U17 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) following a 1-0 win over three-time champions Nigeria, thanks to an Own goal from defense man T.J. Ogboji.

The Mohammed Hamlaoui stadium hosted this day two group stage clash that saw Nigerian defender, find the back of his own net in a bit to clear danger, a goal that caused them a direct round of eight qualification for Morocco.

The second segment was largely dominated by the golden Eaglets with several attempts to level scores. A glaring chance was Michael Emmanuel’s squandered free kick that went over the bar.

Ogboji and Co had a good second half game at the defense compartment, hoping to correct the own goal mistake which they eventually managed fo keep it tight but failed to get the equalizer against a tough defensive Moroccan side.

The golden Eaglet attackers failed to covert several attempts on goal that caused coach Nduka Ugbade

bring in Light Eke in place of captain Prince Williams upfront, in a bid to find solutions and it was the substitute who almost pulled the equalizer, unfortunately his shot was saved by Morocco’s goalkeeper seven minutes to the end of the game.

This was the first meeting between both sides in this competition and Nigeria were tipped favorite to emerge victors of this clash, giving their experience.

Nigeria is making a tenth participation in this youth tournament, unlike Morocco who is participating for just the third time, yet exhibited so much experience and dominance in the game.

Morocco beat Nigeria to the first position following a 2-0 win over South Africa in Match Day one of the competition. The golden Eaglets only grabbed a 1-0 win over Zambia which differentiates them on goal.

Morocco goes to the next phase of the competition as leaders of Pool B with one game to go against the baby Chipolopos of Zambia.

The Atlas Lions joins Senegal as the second team to make it to the last eight in this ongoing competition, though yet to round up with group stage games.

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