Morocco U20 face Algeria in crucial AFCON qualifier as qualification hopes go on the line

Morocco’s Under-20 side face a crucial test against Algeria on Wednesday as the North African rivals meet in the third round of the regional qualifiers for the Africa Cup of Nations U20.

The match will be played at the Suez Canal Stadium in Egypt, with kick-off scheduled for 13:30 Moroccan time.

Morocco are searching for their first victory of the qualifying campaign after opening with a goalless draw against Tunisia, leaving them with one point and second from bottom in the provisional standings.

Algeria lead North African qualifying group

Algeria enter the fixture in a stronger position after collecting four points from their opening two matches.

They drew 1-1 with Tunisia in their first game before beating Libya 3-1 to move top of the standings.

With only two qualification places available to teams from the North African region, Morocco know that dropping further points could make their route to the finals more difficult.

The Moroccan supporters will be able to follow the match live on the Moroccan sports channel.

Batelli seeks improvement from Tunisia draw

French coach Ludovic Batelli will be looking for a response from his players after a below-par display against Tunisia.

Morocco struggled to maintain consistency during that match, particularly in the second half, when Tunisia took greater control of the game.

The Moroccan attack also lacked efficiency in front of goal and failed to convert several opportunities.

Batelli will therefore hope to correct those weaknesses against Algeria and find greater balance and attacking effectiveness from his team.

Morocco face familiar Algerian opposition

The fixture also provides Morocco with an opportunity to move beyond the disappointment of their previous meeting with Algeria.

Morocco were eliminated by Algeria in the semi-finals of the Mediterranean Games in their previous encounter, although the squads involved in that match were different from the current Under-20 teams.

With qualification places at stake, Morocco will now be seeking a result that keeps their AFCON hopes alive while Algeria look to strengthen their position at the top of the North African standings.