Fouzi Lekjaa motivates Morocco ahead of Tunisia clash in U17 AFCON opener 

Morocco’s U17 national team will begin their Africa Cup of Nations campaign with high expectations as the defending champions prepare to face Tunisia in the opening match of the tournament hosted in Morocco until June 2.

The Atlas Cubs head into the competition carrying the weight of growing expectations after their historic triumph in the previous edition, where they captured the U17 AFCON title for the first time in the country’s history.

Only hours before the highly anticipated clash against Tunisia, Royal Moroccan Football Federation president Fouzi Lekjaa visited the players at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Maâmoura to offer support and motivation ahead of the tournament opener.

Lekjaa Sends Strong Message to Atlas Cubs

Lekjaa’s visit highlighted the federation’s confidence in a talented generation widely viewed as the future of Moroccan football.

The FRMF president reportedly encouraged the players to approach the competition with the mentality of champions, stressing that Morocco now enters continental tournaments as one of the favourites rather than an outsider.

The meeting was also attended by National Technical Director Fathi Jamal and National Professional Football League president Abdel Salam Belkchour, further underlining the importance attached to this promising group of players.

Final Preparations Completed Ahead of Tunisia Test

On the pitch, Morocco completed their final preparations on Tuesday evening at the Mohammed VI Football Complex.

Head coach Tiago Lima Pereira focused on tactical adjustments during the final training session, with particular attention given to attacking transitions and defensive organisation ahead of the expected physical challenge posed by Tunisia.

Inside the Moroccan camp, there is strong determination to begin the tournament with a victory, especially given the importance of securing momentum early in short continental competitions.

Atlas Cubs Target Another Historic Campaign

Morocco will take on Tunisia this Wednesday evening at the Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat at 8 p.m. local time.

The Atlas Cubs will then face Ethiopia on May 16 before concluding the group stage against Egypt on May 19.

Morocco enters this year’s competition under positive pressure following their unforgettable triumph in the 2025 edition, when they defeated Mali on penalties after a tense goalless final to secure their maiden U17 AFCON crown.