Morocco complete perfect UNAF qualifying campaign with victory over Libya

Morocco’s under-17 side secured the UNAF qualifying tournament title with a 3-1 win over Libya, completing a flawless campaign and reinforcing their status ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations.

The victory, achieved on Sunday in Benina, ensured that the Atlas Lions finished the competition with four wins from four matches.

Already qualified for the U17 Africa Cup of Nations as hosts, Morocco had also been guaranteed top spot before the tournament began, but still maintained their winning run to the end.

Despite making changes to the starting line-up and leaving out Ibrahim Rabbaj, the Chelsea prospect often referred to as the “Moroccan Messi”, Morocco delivered another composed performance.

The result underlined the depth of the squad and its ability to maintain consistency regardless of selection changes.

The match began at a high tempo, with Morocco taking the lead in under two minutes.

Adnan El Boujjoufi opened the scoring following an assist from Al Aoud, giving his side an early advantage.

Libya responded quickly, equalising in the 10th minute through Jroud.

The goal briefly brought the hosts back into contention in front of their home supporters, but Morocco regained control as the first half progressed.

Just before the break, Adam Boughazir restored Morocco’s lead.

He capitalised on a pass from Ilian Hadid to make it 2-1 in the 45th minute, ensuring that his side went into halftime ahead.

Morocco extended their lead in the second half, with El Boujjoufi scoring his second goal of the match in the 55th minute.

He reacted to a loose ball in the penalty area to make it 3-1, effectively securing the outcome.

The result confirmed Morocco’s dominance in the tournament, with the team finishing with 10 goals scored and only two conceded.

Their performances throughout the qualifying campaign highlighted both attacking efficiency and defensive organisation.

For Libya, the defeat marked the end of a difficult tournament.

As hosts, they were unable to secure a positive result, losing all four of their matches and finishing at the bottom of the standings.

Morocco’s perfect record sends a clear signal ahead of the U17 Africa Cup of Nations, which they will host.

Having also won the competition at home in 2025, they enter the upcoming edition as defending champions.

The team, coached by Tiago Lima Pereira, will be expected to build on this form as they prepare for the continental tournament.

Their performances in the UNAF qualifiers suggest a level of consistency that could prove decisive when the competition begins.

Earlier results also confirmed the remaining qualifiers.

Algeria secured a 1-0 win over Egypt, completing the list of 16 teams that will take part in the U17 Africa Cup of Nations.

However, the Confederation of African Football has yet to announce the official dates for the tournament or conduct the draw.

These details are expected to follow as preparations continue for the competition.

The final standings of the UNAF qualifying tournament reflect Morocco’s dominance.

They finished top with 12 points from four matches, followed by Algeria with seven points.

Egypt placed third with six points, while Tunisia recorded four points.

Libya ended the tournament without a point.

As attention now turns to the U17 Africa Cup of Nations, Morocco’s performance in the qualifiers provides a strong indication of their readiness.

Their ability to maintain a perfect record, even with squad rotation, suggests a team capable of competing at the highest level on the continent.