Hosts Morocco advanced to the semi-finals of the 2025 U17 Africa Cup of Nations after a tense 0-0 draw with Ivory Coast, ultimately prevailing 4-3 in a penalty shootout on Tuesday evening.
In a match marked by disciplined defending and few clear-cut chances, both teams struggled to break the deadlock over 90 minutes. After extra time the scoreline was still goalless both teams marched on to penalties.
Morocco’s goalkeeper Chouaib Boularouch was instrumental during the shootout, making crucial saves to secure the victory. Ziyad Baha, Zakari Khalfioui, Amine Ouahbi, and Ahmed Mawhoub scored from the spot for Morocco. Morocco’s goalkeeper Chouaib Boularouch was named the Man of the Match after the game
With this win, Morocco progresses to the final of the tournament, which serves as a qualifier for the 2025 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar.
Morocco will take on Mali in the final match on Saturday April 19, 2025, at the Stade El Bachir, Mohammedia after the latter qualified by beating Burkina Faso 2-0 earlier on Tuesday.
