Morocco has been crowned champions of the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations for the first time in their history after defeating two-time winners Mali 4-2 on penalties. This victory came following a tense goalless draw in Saturday’s final held at the Stade El Bachir in Mohammedia.
The Moroccan team showed remarkable composure during the penalty shootout, with goalkeeper Zakaria Alaoui shining as the hero by saving two spot-kicks. This triumph sent the home fans into a frenzy after a tightly contested final between two of the tournament’s most consistent teams.
This win ends Morocco’s long wait for continental glory at this level, coming just two years after they finished as runners-up to Senegal. For Mali, it was a heartbreaking defeat in their fifth final appearance, despite dominating large stretches of the match.
Neither team was able to score in regulation time, although both had opportunities in an engaging tactical battle. Morocco’s Ilies Belmokhtar and Ahmed Mouhoub threatened from distance, while Mali’s Seydou Dembélé and Soumaila Fané were active throughout, though their final attempts lacked accuracy.
Mali believed they had taken the lead midway through the first half with a goal from Fané, but it was ruled out by VAR due to a handball in the buildup. In response, Morocco tightened their defensive lines, with central defenders Driss Ait Cheikh and Moncef Zekri effectively neutralizing Mali’s aggressive counterattacks.
Despite Mali applying late pressure and creating several set-piece opportunities, the deadlock persisted until the end of regulation time.
In the penalty shootout, Morocco converted all four of their spot-kicks confidently, with Ziyad Baha, Zakari El Khalfioui, Amine Ouahabi, and Ilies Belmokhtar all finding the back of the net. Conversely, Mali’s Issa Koné and Lamine Keita both had their attempts saved, granting the title to the jubilant Moroccan side.
Coach Nabil Baha, who led the young Lions with discipline and defensive strength throughout the tournament, praised his players’ composure, noting that Morocco conceded just one goal in the entire competition.
Mali, under the guidance of Adama Diefla Diallo, had hoped to win a third U-17 title after lifting the trophy in 2015 and 2017. However, their aspirations were thwarted by a well-organized and mentally resilient Moroccan team.
