The Moroccan national U17 team secured its qualification for the quarter-finals after defeating Egypt in the final group stage match. In a decisive encounter for first place, the Atlas Lions showed up, winning 2-1 and confirming their strength in this important fixture.
Morocco quickly took the lead thanks to Mohamed Moustache, who scored in the 18th minute. The action was notably marked by a magnificent control from Ibrahim Rabbaj, the Chelsea player, before the Lions capitalized on their strong start. This goal allowed the Moroccans to manage the remainder of the first half better, facing an Egyptian side that needed to respond.
Just before the break, Tiago Lima Pereira’s players managed to double their lead. Following a pass from Ismail El Aoud, Imran Talai scored the second Moroccan goal in the 45th+2 minute, giving the Lions a valuable advantage as they headed into the locker room. This important goal rewarded Morocco’s efficiency in key moments.
Upon returning from the break, Egypt, however, reignited the match. In the 49th minute, Ziad Saoudi reduced the deficit with a pass from Mohamed El Sayed, causing a scare among the Moroccan ranks. Despite this Egyptian response, Morocco managed to maintain its lead until the final whistle.
Thanks to this victory, the Atlas Lions finish at the top of their group and head into the quarter-finals with confidence.
