Morocco's U17 Team Faces Heartbreaking Exit
The Moroccan U17 football team, known as the Lionceaux de l'Atlas, faced a dramatic elimination from the Africa U17 Cup of Nations on May 28th, 2026. The team lost to Senegal in a tense penalty shootout, concluding the match with a score of 1-1 after regulation and extra time, ultimately falling 7-6 in the shootout. The match took place at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat, marking a significant disappointment for the reigning champions who hoped to defend their title on home soil.
Senegal opened the scoring in the 23rd minute when Mouhamed Wagne found the back of the net following a rebound from Moroccan goalkeeper Rayan Yaakoubi, who had initially parried a shot from Commissaire Faye. Despite Morocco's dominance in possession and attacking play throughout the match, they were unable to convert their chances until the dying moments of the game. In the 96th minute, a penalty was awarded to Morocco after a handball by a Senegalese defender, which Ismael El Aoud successfully converted, bringing the game to a dramatic equalization.
As the match progressed into penalties, the pressure mounted, and both teams displayed their nerves. However, Senegal proved to be more clinical under pressure, securing their place in the finals with a decisive 7-6 victory in the shootout. Meanwhile, in the other semifinal, Tanzania managed to eliminate Egypt in a goalless draw that went to penalties, marking a historic moment as they reached their first-ever final in the U17 competition.
Morocco will now shift their focus to the third-place playoff, where they are set to face Egypt on June 1st, 2026, at the Complex Mohammed VI in football. The team aims to salvage pride after their unexpected exit from the tournament, while Senegal prepares to challenge Tanzania in the finals on June 2nd.
As reported by maroc-hebdo.com.
