Morocco has etched its name in history by winning the CAN U17 (Africa U-17 Cup of Nations) for the very first time. The Moroccan U17 national team, also known as the Atlas Cubs, triumphed in a tense and tightly-contested final against Mali on Saturday, April 19, 2025, at the Bachir Stadium in Mohammedia. After a goalless draw in regular time, Morocco secured victory with a 4-2 win in the penalty shootout, marking a milestone achievement in their youth football history.
This victory comes as a redemption for Morocco, who suffered a heartbreaking 2-1 defeat to Senegal in the final of the previous edition in 2023. As hosts of the 2025 edition, the young Moroccans delivered under pressure and sent a strong signal ahead of the upcoming AFCON 2025, which will also be hosted in Morocco from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026.
A Clash Between Powerhouses of African Youth Football
Mali’s Dominance Tested
Coming into the final, Mali was considered a formidable opponent. With two previous titles (2015 and 2017), the Malian U17 team, known as the Aiglonnets, has been a benchmark in African youth football for the past decade. Throughout the match, they showed their usual aggression, technical ability, and tactical intelligence.
In the early stages, Mali looked the more threatening side. In the 23rd minute, midfielder Soumaila Fané came close to scoring, connecting with a sharp low cross from Ndjicoura Bomba. However, the goal was disallowed due to a clear handball, and Fané received a yellow card for the infraction.
Shortly before halftime, defender Tiemoko Berthe missed a golden opportunity to put Mali ahead when he failed to connect properly with a curling free-kick that floated over Morocco’s defense.
Morocco’s Resistance and Response
Despite a challenging first half, Morocco showed resilience and tactical discipline. Goalkeeper Chouaib Bellaarouch, who would later become the hero of the night, kept his team alive with key saves and excellent positioning.
Morocco’s main attacking threat came from Ziyad Baha, who tested the Malian defense with powerful shots in the 32nd and 44th minutes. One of his attempts flew just wide, while another was parried away by Malian goalkeeper Sinaba.
Second Half Drama and Missed Chances
A Balanced but Intense Battle
After the break, both sides pushed for a breakthrough, but the defenses held firm. Mali continued to search for a goal, with Fané again coming close with a volley inside the box in the 55th minute, only to be denied by Bellaarouch.
Morocco responded through substitute Ahmed Mouhoub, who unleashed a dangerous shot that skimmed past the left post in the 57th minute. As the minutes ticked away, Morocco began to grow in confidence and push higher up the pitch.
Abdellah Ouazane nearly gave Morocco the lead with a well-placed free-kick, but it was blocked by the Malian wall. Moments later, he initiated a brilliant solo run down the left wing, delivering a perfect cross to Baha, who headed the ball just wide from close range in the 78th minute.
Penalty Shootout Glory for Morocco
Bellaarouch Shines Bright
With the final whistle blowing and the match still goalless, the title had to be decided from the penalty spot. In the shootout, Morocco’s players kept their nerve while their star goalkeeper Chouaib Bellaarouch made two crucial saves.
Bellaarouch’s heroics earned him the Man of the Match award and the title of Best Goalkeeper of the tournament. The defining moment came when Ilies Belmokhtar stepped up to take Morocco’s final penalty. With ice-cold composure, he chipped the ball down the center with a panenka, securing Morocco’s historic 4-2 win.
Tactical Discipline and Mental Strength : The Key to Morocco’s Success
Coach Nabil Baha’s Tactical Masterclass
Morocco’s success in the CAN U17 is largely attributed to the strategic vision of head coach Nabil Baha. Speaking after the final, Baha praised his team’s tactical intelligence and mental fortitude :
“We are the first to ever win this competition for Morocco, so this team will forever be part of our history. I knew it would be a tough match, both physically and mentally, but I never doubted my players. They stuck to the game plan, executed it brilliantly, and deserved this trophy.”
Indeed, Morocco conceded just one goal throughout the tournament — a testament to their rock-solid defense and disciplined midfield. The team adapted well to each opponent and showed impressive maturity for their age group.
What This Victory Means for Moroccan Football
A Sign of Things to Come
This historic CAN U17 title is more than just a trophy, it’s a signal of Morocco’s rising stature in African and global football. With investments in youth development, infrastructure, and coaching, Moroccan football has been undergoing a transformation.
The success of the Atlas Cubs at the U17 level will boost confidence and inspire the next generation of players. It also bodes well for the senior national team and Morocco’s ambitions ahead of the AFCON 2025, which they will host on home soil.
Morocco’s Golden Generation Makes History
The 2025 CAN U17 final between Morocco and Mali will be remembered as a thrilling showdown between two of Africa’s top youth footballing nations. While both teams displayed talent and determination, it was Morocco who came out on top, securing their first-ever U17 African title.
Led by standout performances from Chouaib Bellaarouch and a well-organized team effort, the Atlas Cubs have written a new chapter in their footballing journey. As the country prepares to host AFCON 2025, the future looks bright for Moroccan football, and it all starts with this golden generation of young champions.