Morocco U17 edge Ethiopia to go top of Africa Cup of Nations group

Morocco national under-17 football team defeated Ethiopia national under-17 football team 2 1 on Saturday at the Mohammed VI Football Academy to move joint top of Group A at the U17 Africa Cup of Nations hosted in Morocco.

Ethiopia opened the scoring in the 24th minute through Dawit Kassaw before Morocco responded after the break with increased attacking pressure. Ahmed Moustache equalized in the 49th minute as the hosts pushed for a second goal.

Morocco intensified pressure late in the match before Imrane Talai scored the winner in stoppage time in the 91st minute, securing a crucial victory for the Atlas Cubs.

Following the result, Morocco moved to the top of Group A with four points, level with Egypt national under-17 football team. Tunisia national under-17 football team sit third with one point, ahead of Ethiopia on goal difference.

Morocco is hosting the continental youth tournament as part of broader efforts to strengthen its football infrastructure and youth development system ahead of the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which it will co host alongside Spain and Portugal.