Nabil Baha announces Morocco squad for U-17 World Cup in Qatar

Morocco U-17 coach Nabil Baha has unveiled his 21-man squad for the 2025 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar, as the Atlas Cubs aim to replicate the heroics of their U20 counterparts who recently clinched the world title in Chile.

The North African side has been placed in Group B alongside Portugal, Japan, and New Caledonia. Morocco will begin their campaign against Japan, followed by matches against New Caledonia and Portugal.

Under the new tournament format, the top two teams from each group, along with the eight best third-placed sides, will advance to the Round of 32.

Coach Baha’s selection blends homegrown prospects with Europe-based talents, reflecting Morocco’s growing football network and investment in youth development.

This year’s competition marks a historic expansion, featuring 48 teams across 12 groups — the first of five consecutive U-17 World Cups to be hosted by Qatar. The tournament runs from November 3 to 27, 2025.

2025 U-17 World Cup Group Stage Draw:

• Group A: Qatar, Italy, South Africa, Bolivia

• Group B: Japan, Morocco, New Caledonia, Portugal

• Group C: Senegal, Croatia, Costa Rica, UAE

• Group D: Argentina, Belgium, Tunisia, Fiji

• Group E: England, Venezuela, Haiti, Egypt

• Group F: Mexico, South Korea, Ivory Coast, Switzerland

• Group G: Germany, Colombia, North Korea, El Salvador

• Group H: Brazil, Honduras, Indonesia, Zambia

• Group I: USA, Burkina Faso, Tajikistan, Czechia

• Group J: Paraguay, Uzbekistan, Panama, Republic of Ireland

• Group K: France, Chile, Canada, Uganda

• Group L: Mali, New Zealand, Austria, Saudi Arabia