U-17 AFCON: Morocco chase historic maiden title

2025 U-17 Africa Cup of Nations hosts Morocco are well prepared for the final against Mali on Saturday. The Atlas Cubs are aiming for their first-ever U-17 AFCON title and head coach Nabil Baha says it is quite a dream to achieve it.

The former Morocco international is tasked with winning the U-17 AFCON crown on home soil. His charges are now 90 minutes away from the title as they lock horns with Mali. Baha stated it is a dream to play in the final. “It is true that we have been preparing for this for a long time. We have been waiting for this moment for a long time. We are going to have the chance to play a final that counts for something,” said Baha.

He added, “It is the dream of every coach, every player, every supporter. We are really looking forward to this match and we are ready to face this team from Mali on a big night too.”

Baha acknowledged that the hosts are under pressure but promised a good display from Morocco. “There is a certain pressure because we are playing at home and our fans are expecting this final. They expect victory. We are prepared for that; our players are motivated. They are really eager to get to this match as soon as possible. We are prepared for anything and we are going to approach this match against Mali in the best possible way, with respect for the opponent. This Malian team is really a good team.”

Morocco have now reached back-to-back U-17 AFCON finals. Baha was a member of the senior Morocco national side that reached the 2004 Africa Cup of Nations final in Tunisia, where the Atlas Lions finished as runners-up. As a coach, the 43-year-old hopes to win a trophy for his country.