U-17 World Cup: Nabil Baha confident Morocco will make nation proud

Morocco U-17 head coach Nabil Baha has vowed his team will “make the Moroccan people proud” as they prepare for next month’s FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar.

The Atlas Lion Cubs, who won the Africa U-17 Cup of Nations earlier this year, have been drawn in Group B alongside Japan, Portugal and New Caledonia.

Speaking to FIFA.com, Baha acknowledged the challenge ahead but said his players are ready to rise to the occasion.

It’s a difficult but motivating group, he said. There are no small teams anymore in football. We’ll approach it with great humility, but with the intention of going further than last time. We know it’s a tough group, but our rivals will be up against the African champions, so things will be difficult for them as well.

For Baha, striking the right balance between confidence and respect will be crucial.

The coach emphasised that the team’s mindset will be built on humility, discipline and the determination to showcase their quality on the world stage.

In 2023, Morocco reached the quarter-finals of the U-17 World Cup — their best-ever finish at the tournament.

This time, Baha is aiming even higher.

Our aim is to go as far as possible, he said. We have full confidence in our abilities, and we’ll do everything possible to give our best and make the Moroccan people proud.

Reflecting on the team’s continental triumph, Baha described it as a defining moment for Moroccan football.

Winning the title was very special, not just because we became the first Moroccan team to achieve this feat at this age level, but also because of the spirit within the group. The key was having talented players who can make a difference, and forming a team that feels like one big family.

The 2025 edition of the tournament will be the largest in history, with 48 teams competing for the title.

Morocco’s tactical preparation will be tested against elite opponents such as Portugal and Japan — teams renowned for their technical precision and fast-paced style.

Baha, however, remains optimistic. He believes his squad’s cohesion, character, and continental experience will be key assets in Qatar.

These players are ready to write a beautiful chapter in the history of Moroccan football, he said with conviction.

The Atlas Lion Cubs will open their World Cup campaign on November 3, carrying both the pride of a nation and the confidence of African champions.