U-17 Women’s World Cup on home soil inspires Moroccan team

Morocco’s U-17 women’s national football team is set to make history as they compete in their first-ever World Cup on home soil.

Riding on the success of the senior women’s squad at the 2023 World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, and back-to-back Africa Cup of Nations final appearances, this young team hopes to shine in front of their fans.

The squad features a promising mix of local talent from Moroccan clubs and training centers, as well as players with Moroccan heritage abroad. Notably, 14-year-old Maysa Baha, who plays for Barcelona in Spain and is the daughter of Morocco’s U-17 boys coach Nabil Baha, is the youngest player in the tournament.

Grouped alongside Brazil, Italy, and Costa Rica, Morocco faces strong opposition but aims to go far and inspire a new generation. “We want to show that Morocco is now a major force in women’s football,” said coach Anouar Mghinya. Extensive preparation, including local and international training camps and friendlies, has built team unity and confidence.

Hosting the tournament is part of Morocco’s push to develop women’s football, with modern infrastructure, investment, and royal support driving the sport forward. The team’s journey is about more than results, it is about inspiring thousands of Moroccan and African girls to dream big.