The 2025 U17 Africa Cup of Nations final between Morocco and Mali will now kick off five hours earlier than originally planned, following a scheduling change announced by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
The title decider, set to take place on Saturday, 19 April at the El Bachir Stadium in Mohammedia, will now begin at 2:00 p.m. GMT.
The match had initially been scheduled for a 7:00 p.m. GMT kickoff.
While CAF has not provided an official explanation for the adjustment, factors such as logistical planning or weather conditions may have influenced the decision.
The showdown is expected to be a fiercely contested encounter, with both sides carrying strong ambitions into the final.
Hosts Morocco will be making just their second appearance in the U17 AFCON final, aiming to secure their first-ever title at this level.
Victory would also see them become only the second North African nation to lift the trophy, following Egypt’s historic win in 1997.
For Mali, the match presents an opportunity to add a third championship to their growing collection, having previously won the tournament in 2015 and 2017.
This marks their fourth appearance in the final, a testament to the consistent strength of the Aiglonnets in youth competitions.
A win on Saturday would further reinforce West Africa’s dominance in the U17 category.
Beyond the pursuit of silverware, this fixture carries a sense of unfinished business.
The two sides last met in the 2023 semi-final, a tense contest that ended in a goalless draw before Morocco prevailed on penalties.
That result will no doubt linger in the minds of the Malian players and add an extra layer of motivation heading into the rematch.
Both teams have impressed throughout the tournament, combining tactical discipline with individual flair.
With home advantage and a passionate crowd behind them, Morocco will be hoping to make history on familiar soil.
Mali, however, arrives with a wealth of experience and a reputation for delivering in big moments.
As the countdown to the final continues, the change in kickoff time is unlikely to dampen the intensity of the occasion.
Supporters from both nations—and across the continent—will be watching closely as two of Africa’s brightest young sides battle for the ultimate prize in youth football.
