Morocco begin Women’s Under-17 World Cup with emphatic win over New Zealand

Morocco made a commanding start to the 2026 Women’s Under-17 World Cup by beating New Zealand 4-0 in the opening Group A match at the Complex Mohammed VI de football in Sale on Saturday.

The hosts dominated the second half after New Zealand had held firm before the interval. Sonia Abajiou, who plays for Frankfurt, broke the deadlock in the 57th minute, converting a pass from Hiba Youssoufi of AS FAR Rabat.

Morocco doubled their advantage 13 minutes later when New Zealand defender Eden Chaytor inadvertently turned Nessma Mouradi’s effort into her own net. Mouradi plays for Paris FC.

Youness Rabie’s side continued to press and added a third in the 76th minute. Imane Dhissi of Borussia Monchengladbach finished after being set up by Aya Ait Khouya Mouh, who plays for PSG.

Youssoufi then completed the scoring from the penalty spot eight minutes later to give Morocco a convincing opening victory.

The result puts the Atlas Lionesses at the top of Group A on goal difference, ahead of Germany. Germany had earlier defeated Argentina 2-1.

Morocco will face Germany in their second group-stage fixture next Tuesday. A second successive victory would secure their place in the last 16.

The top two teams in each group will progress to the knockout stage, along with the four best third-placed sides.