Morocco head coach Nabil Baha has laid out a clear strategy for his team ahead of their historic CAF U17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final clash against Mali, as the Atlas Lions seek to secure their first-ever title in the competition.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference on Thursday, Baha highlighted the key factors he believes will determine the outcome of Saturday’s highly anticipated final in Mohammedia, which kicks off at 3 p.m. local time.
“We have prepared well to face Mali in a match that will be decided on small details such as physical fitness,” said the 43-year-old tactician.
Fully aware of the pressure surrounding his young squad as hosts, Baha emphasized the necessity of physical strength, adaptability, and tactical discipline to overcome a formidable Malian side.
Morocco’s journey to the final has been fueled by a sense of unfinished business.
The national U17 team came agonizingly close to victory two years ago, only to fall short against Senegal in the final’s closing stages.
In 2013, their campaign ended just shy of the final after a semi-final loss to Ivory Coast.
This year, the Atlas Cubs avenged that 2013 heartbreak by knocking out the Ivorians in a dramatic semi-final penalty shootout (0-0, 4-3), rekindling hopes of finally clinching the coveted title.
As they prepare to face a determined Mali—who themselves were ousted at the semi-final stage in the previous edition—Baha stressed the importance of mental resilience and the ability to adjust to shifting circumstances, including an unexpected change in match timing.
“We are ready to play this match whatever the timing,” Baha said, downplaying the rescheduling from an evening kickoff to an earlier 3 p.m. start. “The team that adapts more quickly has a greater chance of winning.”
Beyond fitness and flexibility, Baha underlined the critical role of managing the match from start to finish.
With Mali known for their technical prowess and depth, the Moroccan coach urged his players to remain alert and composed.
“Mali has good players and we expect a difficult match, but above all, we must stay focused and play the match well throughout its phases,” he concluded.
With Morocco on the brink of a landmark achievement, Baha’s words offer a roadmap not just for victory, but for exorcising the ghosts of past disappointments.
The nation will be watching as the next generation of Moroccan talent takes the stage, just one step away from making history.
