Morocco suffer second defeat in UNAF U17 tournament

Morocco’s preparations for hosting the Africa Cup of Nations U17 have suffered another setback after they were beaten 1-0 by Egypt in the North African Football Union (UNAF) U17 tournament.

Egypt secured victory at the Olympic Stadium in Sousse, Tunisia, on Friday in the second round of the qualifying competition. The result leaves Morocco without a point after two matches and at the bottom of the table.

Morocco goalkeeper Iyad Hamzi saved a penalty in the ninth minute, but Egypt took the lead just two minutes later.

The goal came after Morocco lost possession on the right. The Egyptian player was allowed to advance towards the edge of the penalty area before sending an unstoppable shot into the bottom-right corner of Hamzi’s net.

Hamzi plays for the Mohammed VI Football Academy.

The defeat was Morocco’s second in as many matches, following their 1-0 loss to Algeria in the opening round. Although Morocco have already qualified automatically for the Africa Cup of Nations U17 as hosts, the tournament dates have yet to be confirmed.

Nabil Baha’s side will attempt to recover on Monday when they face Tunisia in the third and final round of their campaign.

Egypt, meanwhile, have secured their place in the finals after winning both of their matches. The Pharaohs began with a 2-1 victory over Tunisia before overcoming Morocco.

They will conclude their tournament against Algeria, who must win after suffering a 4-1 defeat by Tunisia earlier on Friday.