Morocco U-17 coach, Nabil Baha says he was convinced about his side chances of qualifying ahead of Ivory Coast.
Morocco on Tuesday booked their place in the finals of the ongoing tournament with a 4-3 penalty shootout against the Ivorians at the Stade El Bachir, Mohammédia.
Speaking after the game, Baha said he was certain his country would qualify, basing this belief on his confidence in goalkeeper Chouaib Boularouch.
“We were aiming to close out the match before this stage, but once we reached the penalty shootout, I was certain we would qualify because I know Boularouch is a great penalty taker, as he excels in them during training,” he said.
“The intention was to close out the match in the official minutes, but Côte d’Ivoire made it very difficult for us. Their opponent was fierce, and their passage through was not as easy as expected. As for my son Ziad’s penalty, I was unable to watch it.”
“Thank God, I have equalled the achievement of my colleague, said Chiba before me by leading my country to a new final. I think things are clear now. There are no options and no room for effort, with our great appreciation for the Malian team, the finalist. This cup should remain in Morocco, God willing,” he added.
Morocco will play its Malian counterpart in the final match on Saturday, April 19, at the Stade El Bachir, Mohammédia, after the latter qualified by defeating Burkina Faso 2-0 earlier on Tuesday.
