The ceremony, scheduled for 14:00 local time (12:00 GMT) at CAF headquarters, will feature some of the continent’s established stars, including Fiston Mayele, Aliou Dieng and Ahmed Belhadji, who are expected to lend glamour to the event.

However, the absence of Nigeria—five-time world champions at this level—casts a long shadow over the tournament, with the Golden Eaglets notably missing from the 16-team lineup. Nigeria’s failure to qualify marks a significant setback for one of Africa’s most successful youth football programmes, renowned for producing global stars and setting benchmarks at the FIFA U-17 World Cup.

The 2026 edition, to be hosted by Morocco, will bring together 16 teams drawn from across CAF’s zonal unions. Representing the CECAFA region are Ethiopia, Tanzania and Uganda, while Angola, Mozambique and South Africa fly the COSAFA flag.

From WAFU Zone A come Senegal and Mali, with Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana representing WAFU Zone B. Cameroon and DR Congo qualified from UNIFFAC, while Algeria, Egypt and Tunisia complete the lineup from UNAF, joining hosts Morocco.

The expanded format underscores CAF’s renewed commitment to youth development, offering increased opportunities for emerging talents to gain continental exposure. Beyond the quest for the African title, the stakes are even higher, as the tournament doubles as a qualification pathway to the FIFA U-17 World Cup later this year.

Africa will have 10 slots at the global tournament. The eight quarter-finalists will qualify automatically, while the remaining two tickets will be decided through play-off matches involving the four third-placed teams from the group stage.

For many of the participating nations, Morocco 2026 represents a crucial platform to showcase their next wave of stars. Yet, for Nigeria, the competition will unfold from the sidelines—a rare and sobering development for a country long regarded as a powerhouse of youth football on the continent.

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The Atlas Cubs’ breathtaking display in their final Group B match surpassed Spain’s 13-0 victory over New Zealand — a record that had stood for years — as they relentlessly piled on the goals from start to finish.

New Caledonia’s night turned disastrous early on when Typhan Dreuko and Jean Canehmez were both shown red cards in the first half, leaving the Oceania side with nine men for over an hour. Morocco capitalized mercilessly, turning the match into a goal festival.

Soukrat opened the scoring in the third minute before Oualid Ibn Salah (11’, 18’), Abdelali Eddaoudi (41’, 42’), Hidaoui (44’), Ziyad Baha (45+2’, 50’), El Khalfioui (48’), Nahel Haddani (56’, 59’), Abdellah Ouazane (73’, 90+2’), and Ismail El Aoud (80’, 90’) all found the net. Steevy compounded New Caledonia’s misery with an own goal in the 76th minute.

The result lifted Morocco to third place in Group B, behind Japan and Portugal. They now await confirmation of whether they will progress as one of the best third-placed teams.

Midfielder Abdelali Eddaoudi, who bagged a first-half brace and orchestrated Morocco’s attacking rhythm, was deservedly named Player of the Match.

The emphatic win not only restored Morocco’s confidence after earlier setbacks but also underlined Africa’s growing presence in youth football on the global stage.

With their record-breaking triumph, the Atlas Cubs have etched their names into FIFA U-17 World Cup history — a night of goals that will be remembered for generations.

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In a report published on its official website, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) revealed that many scouts from big European clubs were among the crowd, namely from Manchester United, Liverpool, Chelsea, Bayern Munich, and Atlético Madrid. Top African clubs like Wydad, RS Berkane, and Al Ahly also sent talent scouts.

Ex-Ghana international Bernard Kumordzi, now a scout for Genk, was left spotted among the spectators.

“It’s my first U17 AFCON. Honestly, I didn’t expect this level. The set-up, the players, the organisation – top drawer,” said Kumordzi.

He added: “People compare this to past editions, but this one felt different — full of quality and potential. Sure, it can improve, but it’s already a breeding ground for excellence.”

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The hosts held their nerve in the shootout with goalkeeper Zakaria Alaoui emerging as the hero, saving two spot-kicks to send the home fans into raptures after a tightly contested final between two of the tournament’s most consistent sides.

The win ends Morocco’s long wait for continental glory at this level, just two years after finishing as runners-up to Senegal.

For Mali, it was heartbreak in their fifth final appearance, despite dominating large portions of the match.

Mali thought they had taken the lead midway through the first half through Fané, only for the goal to be ruled out by VAR for a handball in the build-up.

The North Africans responded by tightening their lines, with central defenders Driss Ait Cheikh and Moncef Zekri repelling Mali’s aggressive transitions.

Despite late pressure and a string of set-pieces from the West Africans, the deadlock remained unbroken at full-time.

Penalty drama seals historic win

In the shootout, Morocco converted all four of their spot-kicks with confidence—Ziyad Baha, Zakari El Khalfioui, Amine Ouahabi and Ilies Belmokhtar all finding the net.

Mali’s Issa Koné and Lamine Keita both saw their efforts saved, handing the title to the jubilant hosts.

Coach Nabil Baha, who guided the young Lions with discipline and defensive rigour throughout the tournament, hailed his players’ composure. Morocco conceded just one goal in the entire competition.

Mali, led by Adama Diefla Diallo, had hoped to secure a third U-17 crown after lifting the trophy in 2015 and 2017. But their dreams were dashed by a well-organised and mentally resilient Moroccan side.

Stalemate in regular time

Neither side managed to find a breakthrough in regulation time, although both had chances in an absorbing tactical contest.

Morocco’s Ilies Belmokhtar and Ahmed Mouhoub threatened from range while Mali’s Seydou Dembélé and Soumaila Fané were lively throughout, but their final efforts lacked precision.

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Backed by a passionate home crowd at the Stade El Bachir, the Atlas Cubs were clinical when it mattered most, with Ziyad Baha scoring twice in a dominant second-half display after the teams went into the break with the Moroccans holding a slender 1-0 lead.

The win sees Morocco take a giant step towards their dream of lifting the title on home soil, as they now look ahead to a tough last-four encounter.

Morocco looked dangerous from the outset, with striker Ziyad Baha drawing an early save before Ismail El Aoud found the breakthrough in the 13th minute, smashing home from close range after a rebound.

Despite Morocco’s strong start, South Africa showed resilience. Neo Bohloko brought the Amajimbos level in the 54th minute, rising to head in a pinpoint cross from Emile Witbooi.

The goal sparked brief hope for the visitors, who had grown into the match after weathering early pressure.

Just as South Africa began to settle, Morocco responded with purpose. Within two minutes of the equaliser, Baha latched onto a headed pass from El Aoud to fire Morocco back in front in the 61st minute.

The forward then doubled his tally with another cool finish from Abdellah Ouazane’s through ball a minute later.

From there, Morocco remained in control, repelling South Africa’s advances with organised defending and launching swift counterattacks.

Chouaib Bellaarouch produced two key saves to deny Oageng Lebesane and Witbooi late in the second half, preserving Morocco’s advantage.

Meanwhile, the home crowd continued to spur the Atlas Cubs forward.

As the clock ticked down, the hosts managed the game with maturity beyond their years, frustrating South Africa’s desperate attempts to get back into the tie.

Baha, El Aoud, and Belmokhtar remained a constant threat on the break, while Morocco’s backline absorbed pressure with composure.

South Africa made several substitutions to inject energy into their attack, but Morocco’s structure and physicality proved too much.

With this victory, Morocco becomes the second team to confirm their spot in the semi-finals of the competition, joining Burkina Faso who advanced earlier in the day after thrashing Zambia 6-1.

As the tournament heads into its decisive phase, Morocco’s blend of attacking flair and defensive organisation will make them serious contenders for the U-17 AFCON crown.

-CAF

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Some teams have already punched their ticket to the next stage as well as their slots at the World Cup in Qatar later this year, while others are clinging to hopes of progression. 

Mali and Burkina Faso through to quarter-finals

Mali and Burkina Faso have secured their spots in the quarter-finals after winning their opening two matches. Mali beat Angola 2-1 before dispatching Central African Republic 2-0, showcasing strong cohesion and tactical maturity.

Burkina Faso, meanwhile, edged Cameroon 2-1 and followed that up with a narrow 2-1 win over Egypt, showing grit and determination in both matches. Their results guarantee passage into the last eight.

World Cup Play-off Scenario

With ten African places available for the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar this November, every match is crucial. The top two teams from each group will automatically qualify for the quarter-finals.

The four third-placed teams will then contest World Cup play-off matches to determine the final two qualifiers from Africa. 

As it stands, no team is mathematically out of contention for those play-off slots.

Group A

• Morocco – 4 points (+5)
• Zambia – 4 points (+3)
• Uganda – 3 points (-2)
• Tanzania – 0 points (-6)

Final Group Fixtures:

• Morocco vs Tanzania
• Uganda vs Zambia

Group B

• Burkina Faso – 6 points (+2)
• South Africa – 4 points (+1)
• Cameroon – 1 point (-1)
• Egypt – 0 points (-2)

Final Group Fixtures:

• Burkina Faso vs South Africa
• Cameroon vs Egypt

Group C

• Tunisia – 4 points (+3)
• Senegal – 4 points (+1)
• Gambia – 3 points (+3)
• Somalia – 0 points (-7)

Final Group Fixtures:

• Tunisia vs Gambia
• Senegal vs Somalia

Group D

• Mali – 6 points (+3)
• Côte d’Ivoire – 4 points (+5)
• Angola – 1 point (-1)
• Central African Republic – 0 points (-7)

Final Group Fixtures:

• Mali vs Côte d’Ivoire
• Angola vs Central African Republic

-CAF

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In a rollercoaster contest packed with drama, penalties, and a red card, it was Emile Witbooi’s 71st-minute strike that ultimately sealed the win for Amajimbos, who now sit top of the group alongside Burkina Faso with three points.

The match exploded into life almost immediately, as South Africa took the lead in the first minute through Simphiwe Mlondo.

Egypt responded quickly, equalising three minutes later with a header from Anas Roshdi. The Pharaohs then surged ahead 3-1 with goals from Roshdi again and Hamza Abdel Karim in a dominant 20-minute spell.

But South Africa roared back before the break. Two penalties from Neo Bohloko – the first in the 27th minute and the second just before half-time – levelled the scores at 3-3 going into the interval.

Both sides created chances in a tense second half, but it was Witbooi who found the breakthrough, calmly finishing from the centre of the box after a well-timed pass from Bohloko.

Egypt’s misery was compounded in stoppage time when Omar Abdel Aziz received a red card following a VAR review.

The result sees South Africa join Burkina Faso – who earlier came from behind to beat Cameroon 2-1 – at the top of Group B.

The Amajimbos now turn their focus to a clash with Cameroon on Thursday, while Egypt will seek redemption against Burkina Faso.

-CAF

Playing in front of their home fans at El Bachir Stadium, the hosts wasted no time asserting their dominance, scoring twice in the opening ten minutes and never looking back.

The emphatic result puts Morocco top of Group A, providing an early boost to their hopes of lifting the continental title.

With Ramadan drawing to a close and Eid al-Fitr just a day away, the atmosphere in the stadium was electric as supporters turned out in numbers to celebrate both faith and football.

“What better way to start the Eid celebrations than to support our young Lions of the Atlas,” said Amir, a local fan who attended with his family. “I brought my daughters and nephew — I knew they would make us proud!”

Morocco were ahead after just three minutes, thanks to Ilies Belmokhtar, before Driss Aït Chiekh doubled the lead in the 8th minute.

The early double lifted the crowd, who remained loud and energetic despite the late 22:00 kick-off.

The pressure from Morocco was relentless, and in the 23rd minute, they were awarded a penalty following a VAR review by Nigerien referee Sadou Ali Brahamou.

The spot-kick was calmly converted by Ziyad Baha Abedlahadj, the Real Betis forward, who was cheered on by chants of “Chebbka!” (meaning “the net”) from the crowd.

Belmokhtar returned to the scoresheet soon after with a solo effort, giving Morocco a 4-0 lead before half-time, having enjoyed 67% possession and converting four of their six first-half chances.

Uganda tried to regroup after the break, returning to the pitch early with renewed intent.

Simon Wanyama nearly pulled one back, only to be denied by an excellent save from Moroccan goalkeeper Chouaib Bellaarouch.

The Mohammed VI Academy keeper also frustrated efforts from Elvis Torach and Richard Okello, keeping his clean sheet intact with a string of fine saves.

As Uganda pushed forward in search of a consolation, they left gaps at the back. Morocco capitalised again in the 71st minute when Ziyad Baha pounced on a defensive error by Ashraf Lukyamuzi to make it five.

The score remained unchanged as Morocco wrapped up a comprehensive victory, sending an early warning to their Group A rivals.

With three points and a significant goal difference advantage, they now sit top of the group heading into the next round of fixtures.

For the Moroccan supporters, it was a perfect evening — combining the joy of football with the spirit of Eid.

 More importantly, it was a clear statement of intent from a team that has every ambition of going all the way in this year’s tournament.

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The Cubs were handed a humbling loss in their opening group match, but Ssenyondo says the setback is not the end of the road as his team eyes qualification for the FIFA U-17 World Cup.

“A false start is not the end of the race,” Ssenyondo said defiantly in the post-match press conference.

“It’s never easy facing the host nation, especially a side like Morocco, who are well ahead of us in the FIFA rankings. But we’re not here to make up the numbers.”

Ssenyondo remained calm despite the scoreline and insists Uganda will refocus for their next match against regional rivals Tanzania — a game that now carries do-or-die stakes.

“I firmly believe we will recover,” he added.

“I know my team, and I know what they are capable of. We will bounce back. I’ll give the boys tonight to process this loss, but tomorrow we go back to work.”

The coach emphasised that his players remain focused on their mission: to secure one of the coveted World Cup qualification spots and make history for Ugandan football.

“Despite this defeat, the boys are not discouraged,” Ssenyondo said.

“In fact, they are more motivated. They want to write history for their country. We know there will be no second chances. Champions are revealed when they’re up against the wall.”

Uganda’s next match against Tanzania will be more than just a group fixture.

It is a survival battle in the tournament, but also an opportunity for a young squad to show it has what it takes to join the continent’s elite at youth level.

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This meeting between South Africa and Egypt is one of three at CAF tournaments in 2025. They have also been paired together in the group stages of the TotalEnergies CAF U20 AFCON, which Egypt will host, as well as at the men’s senior TotalEnergies CAF AFCON in Morocco. 

Egypt U17 coach Ahmed El Kass featured 72 times for the Egyptian national team and scored 23 goals. He faced South Africa twice, losing one game and winning another. 

South Africa have played North African teams at the finals twice previously. They have not won either of these games (D1 L1), both of which have been group-stage meetings. In 2007 they drew 2-2 in their final pool game against Tunisia and in 2023 they began with a 2-0 loss to Morocco.

While this is Egypt’s first meeting against South Africa at the CAF U17 AFCON, they have met Southern African sides twice before, winning both games. On their way to the title in 1997 they defeated hosts Botswana 2-0 in their opening game. 

Egypt’s other game against a COSAFA member nation ended in a 1-0 win in their opening group fixture against hosts Eswatini in 2003.

In both their previous finals appearances in 1997 and 2003 when overcoming Southern African opponents in the group stages, Egypt progressed to the knockout rounds winning the title in 1997 and ending fourth in 2003.

SOUTH AFRICA FACTS
·       South Africa reached the quarter-finals at the last finals in Algeria in 2023, where they were defeated by eventual champions Senegal.

·       South Africa are participating for a fifth time at the U17 finals having first made their debut in 2005. They also qualified in 2007, 2015 and 2023.

·       South Africa have reached the knockout stage in three of their four previous finals appearances. In 2005 they ended fourth and in 2023 they reached the last eight. Their best performance was as runners-up in 2015. Their only group-stage elimination was in 2007.

·       South Africa’s record in their opening group game at the finals reads P4 W0 D2 L2.

·       In their opening group game in 2005, South Africa drew 2-2 against Nigeria, a game where they lead 2-0. In 2007 South Africa opened with a 2-0 loss to hosts Togo, while in 2015 they drew 2-2 against Cote d’ Ivoire, again letting a 2-0 lead slip, in 2023 they lost 2-0 to Morocco.

·       Of South Africa’s previous 12 group games at the finals they have won five – their second group games in 2005 and 2023 against Southern African rivals Zimbabwe (4-1) and Zambia (3-2). Their other group stage wins were a 1-0 triumph in their final pool fixture in 2005 against Cote d’ Ivoire, a 3-1 win against Gabon in their second group game in 2007, and a 3-1 win over Cameroon in 2015. 

·       Of their other seven group games, South Africa have lost three games to Togo in 2007, and Morocco and Nigeria in 2023. They have also drawn four group games.

·       All four of South Africa’s draws at the finals have been 2-2 stalemates. 

·       South Africa are coached by Vela Khumalo, who is a junior coach with Kaizer Chiefs. In the South African squad, eight players are from the Mamelodi Sundowns academy, followed by the Kaizer Chiefs academy who have five players, while Cape Town City have four players in the squad. All of their 21 players are domestically based.

EGYPT FACTS
·       Egypt are participating at the finals for a  fourth time after previous appearances in 1997, 2003 and 2011.

·       Egypt return to the continental finals after missing the last five editions. They last qualified in 2011 when Rwanda were hosts.

·       Egypt were winners when they made their finals debut in 1997. They were fourth in 2003 and were eliminated in the group stages in their last tournament appearance in 2011.

·       Egypt’s record in their opening group game at the finals reads P3 W3 D0 L0. In their previous opening games they have defeated Botswana 2-0 in 1997 and Eswatini 1-0 in 2003. They also won 2-1 against Senegal in 2011.

·       Egypt won their only title in Botswana in 1997, defeating Mali in the final 1-0. Egypt did not concede a goal en route to lifting the title, keeping five clean sheets.

·       In fact, Egypt did not concede a goal in their first eight games the finals through five games in 1997 and three games in 2003. They first conceded in their 2-1 semi-final loss to Cameroon in 2003.

·        In nine group games at the finals, Egypt’s record reads P9 W5 D2 L2.

·       Egypt’s 4-0 loss to Burkina Faso in their final group game in 2011 is their biggest loss at the finals. 

·       Egypt qualified for the finals by finishing top of the 2024 UNAF U17 qualifying tournament, which was held in Morocco in November last year.

·       Nine members of Egypt’s squad play their club football in the youth ranks of ENPPI, a further eight are in the youth ranks of Al Ahly.

·       Of Egypt’s 26 man squad, 24 players are based in Egypt. Only Youssef El Shabrawy of Portuguese club Braga and Mahmoud Shaker of Italian club Pro Vercelli are based outside of the country.   

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