Morocco U17 coach Tiago Lima Pereira praises mentality of players after tough draw against Tunisia

The Moroccan U-17 national team began their 2026 U-17 Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a determined 1-1 draw against Tunisia on Wednesday evening in Rabat.

Despite failing to secure all three points, Morocco head coach Tiago Lima Pereira was pleased with the reaction of his young side, especially after a difficult opening period in front of the home supporters.

Pereira Highlights Players’ Character

Speaking after the match, Pereira praised the mentality and personality shown by the Atlas Cubs during the second half of the encounter. According to the coach, many of his players were experiencing such a high-pressure environment for the very first time, which contributed to their slow start.

He explained that the excitement of playing in a packed stadium coupled with the expectations of the home crowd affected the team early on. However, he was encouraged by the way the players responded after the break as Morocco pushed forward relentlessly in search of a result.

The Portuguese tactician also stressed that the group remains completely open after all four teams played out draws in their opening fixtures.

Tunisia Coach Reacts To Intense Derby Clash

Tunisia head coach Abdelrazzak Hedider described the contest as a classic North African derby full of intensity and tactical battles.

The Tunisian side took an early lead after successfully implementing their game plan, but Hedider admitted that Morocco’s attacking pressure in the second half made it extremely difficult for his team to hold onto the advantage.

He also commended Morocco for the organisation and atmosphere surrounding the tournament, praising the hosts for delivering a strong opening to the competition.

Focus Shifts To Ethiopia Clash

Group A remains finely poised after Ethiopia and Egypt also settled for a goalless draw in the other group fixture.

Morocco will now turn their attention to Saturday’s crucial encounter against Ethiopia at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Sale. The Atlas Cubs will be aiming to claim their first victory of the tournament and strengthen their chances of progressing to the next stage.