U23 AFCON qualifiers: Morocco face Ethiopia in two-legged tie in November

Morocco’s U23 national team will take on Ethiopia on November 12 and 17 in the second round of qualifying for the U23 Africa Cup of Nations, the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) has announced.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has confirmed the dates, venues, kickoff times and officiating teams for both encounters, with the Atlas Cubs set to play the first leg away from home before hosting the return fixture in Rabat.

The opening match will take place on Thursday, November 12, at Dire Dawa Stadium in Ethiopia, with kickoff scheduled for 4pm local time (1pm Moroccan time).

Malagasy referee Andriatsara Arnaud Zafimahatoha will officiate the encounter, assisted by compatriots Larenion Miladera and Ravoavy Hasinoro Fitiavana.

The return leg is scheduled for Tuesday, November 17, at Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat, with kickoff set for 3:30pm Moroccan time.

Nigerian referee Abubakar Abdallah will take charge of the second encounter, assisted by fellow Nigerians Ahmed Tijani Mustapha and Tejiri Besmart Digbori.

Morocco target another U23 AFCON qualification

The two-legged tie represents an important test for Morocco as they seek to continue their progress in the continental competition.

The Atlas Cubs will aim to secure a positive result in Ethiopia before returning home for the decisive second leg, where they will have the advantage of playing in front of their supporters.

Morocco are the reigning champions of the U23 Africa Cup of Nations, having won their maiden title in 2023 after defeating Egypt 2-1 following extra time in the final in Rabat.

That triumph secured their qualification for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, where they went on to claim a historic bronze medal.

The upcoming meetings with Ethiopia will therefore provide Morocco’s next generation with an opportunity to maintain the country’s recent achievements in youth football.

The winner of the two-legged encounter will progress to the next stage of qualification for the U23 Africa Cup of Nations.