Morocco knocked out of Women’s U17 World Cup after heavy defeat by DPR Korea

Morocco’s run at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup ended in emphatic fashion as the Atlas Lionesses were beaten 6-0 by defending champions DPR Korea in the last 16 on Wednesday.

The result brought a decisive end to Morocco’s campaign and underlined the gap that remains between the North African side and the leading teams in the women’s Under-17 game.

Having reached the knockout stage, Morocco faced one of the strongest sides in the competition. DPR Korea, known as the Eastern Azaleas, immediately took control and gave their opponents little opportunity to settle.

The defending champions dictated possession from the opening minutes and repeatedly created dangerous attacking situations. Morocco struggled to match their intensity and found themselves under sustained pressure.

DPR Korea’s dominance was reflected in the half-time score, with the champions leading 4-0 and the outcome already appearing beyond doubt.

The Atlas Lionesses attempted to respond after the break but could not find a way back into the contest. Defensive difficulties, combined with a series of misplaced passes, made it easier for DPR Korea to maintain control and continue creating chances.

The second half followed much the same pattern. The Eastern Azaleas remained firmly in command and added two further goals to complete a 6-0 victory.

For Morocco, the defeat was a severe conclusion to a tournament that had nevertheless included the achievement of reaching the last 16. Their progress to the knockout stage represents a positive step, but the scale of the loss also highlighted the work still required to compete more closely with the world’s strongest youth teams.

The experience will now provide an important reference point for the development of Moroccan women’s football. Improving youth coaching, arranging more international matches and providing greater support for young players will be central to narrowing the gap.

Morocco’s focus will therefore turn to ensuring that the lessons from this World Cup defeat contribute to the continued development of the next generation of players.