2025 U17 World Cup: Morocco seeks redemption against New Caledonia 

Morocco will take to the field this Sunday against New Caledonia in their final Group B match at the U17 World Cup, aiming to restore pride after a challenging start to the tournament.

The Atlas Lions have already been eliminated from contention following consecutive defeats—1-0 against Japan and a heavy 6-0 loss to Portugal.

With no chance of advancing to the knockout stage, Morocco’s focus shifts to ending the campaign on a positive note and giving experience to the squad’s underutilized players.

“For us, this match is an opportunity to learn lessons and finish the tournament with some pride, said Nabil Baha, Morocco’s U17 coach. We want to give minutes to players who have not had much time on the pitch, and we expect a response in terms of commitment and attitude after the difficult result against Portugal.”

Baha’s approach emphasizes development and morale over results, recognizing the value of competitive exposure for his young squad.

The match provides a platform for players to showcase their skills, build cohesion, and gain experience against international opposition—a key objective for Morocco’s youth setup.

For New Caledonia, the stakes are higher.

The team remains in contention and a victory could propel them into the round of 32, making the clash a crucial one for the Pacific nation.

Determined to capitalize on Morocco’s elimination, New Caledonia will aim to impose its rhythm, testing Morocco’s defensive organization and resilience.

The game also represents a tactical challenge for both coaches.

Morocco will need to balance opportunities for emerging players with maintaining defensive stability, while New Caledonia must manage the pressure of chasing their first win in the competition.

Beyond the scoreline, the match carries symbolic significance for Morocco.

After facing two strong opponents, the young players have the chance to regain confidence, display teamwork, and demonstrate their fighting spirit.

The encounter is expected to be competitive, with both teams eager to leave a lasting impression before the tournament concludes.

As kickoff approaches, attention will be on the Moroccan bench for rotations and the Atlas Lions’ ability to respond positively after a difficult group stage.

For New Caledonia, the game represents a historic opportunity to claim a first victory and take a step closer to advancing in the U17 World Cup.