Morocco’s national under-16 team played out a 1-1 draw with their Algerian counterparts earlier today in the North African Championship, currently taking place in Tunisia from February 4 to 8, 2026.
Algeria made a fast start to the encounter, finding the opening goal in the early minutes of the match. Morocco responded after the break, showing greater composure in the second half to restore parity and secure a share of the points.
The tournament forms part of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation’s long-term preparation programme aimed at developing this age group ahead of future continental and international competitions.
It also provides the young players with valuable competitive exposure against teams representing different footballing schools across the Maghreb.
Morocco’s U-16 side will return to action on February 6, 2026, when they face Libya at 12:00, before wrapping up their first-round matches against hosts Tunisia on February 8 at 14:00.
Head coach Ashraf Hanzaz and his technical staff are using the tournament to closely evaluate the squad’s technical and physical readiness.
The competition also allows the coaching team to test a wide pool of players while reinforcing teamwork and shaping the tactical identity of the national team at this crucial developmental stage.
The North African Football Union Under-16 Championship is widely regarded as a key platform for identifying emerging talents and laying the groundwork for future national teams, especially given the high level of competition among sides with closely matched footballing traditions and technical qualities.
