TotalEnergies CAF U-17 AFCON – Morocco vs South Africa: The Lion Cubs take on skilful Amajimbos
Having qualified without conceding a single goal, Morocco approaches their quarter-final against South Africa with both ambition and caution. In front of them stand a determined Amajimbos, ready to bring down the host nation.
At home, in a buzzing El Bachir Stadium in Mohammedia, Morocco aims to cement its status as favourites. Unbeaten, solid at the back, and creative up front, the Lion Cubs impressed in the group stage. But in the quarter-finals, against a South African side hungry for an upset, there's no room for error.
"We're entering a different kind of competition', admits Morocco coach Nabil Baha.
"It's now knockout football. We need to stay clear-headed and play with intensity. We respect South Africa, but we don't adapt to anyone. It's up to them to find the answers.
South Africa out to overcome Morocco… Again
The shadow of the senior TotalEnergies CAF AFCON looms over this clash. Back in January, South Africa knocked Morocco out. And U-17 coach Vela Khumalo hasn't forgotten:
"Our senior team did it, our Banyana Banyana (women's team) did it too. Why not us? Morocco is strong, but we've studied their game closely. We want to cause an upset', said Khumalo.
A Clash of Styles
This quarter-final pits two footballing philosophies against each other. Morocco: structured, patient, confident in their strength. South Africa: more direct, attacking, and unpredictable with their skill up front.
"We were too soft defensively in the group stage. We've corrected that. Morocco is well-organised – but so are we. We're not here to be walkovers."
Physically, South Africa hope to leverage their freshness and pressing game. Morocco, on the other hand, will rely on their well-oiled patterns and dominant midfield.
The Nation's Expectation
Morocco is playing at home. And while that's undeniably an advantage, it also comes with added expectations.
"We want to bring this trophy home for our people', insists player Daoues.
But coach Baha offers a more measured view: "Yes, there's more pressure – but also more support. The crowd can lift us. It's up to us to rise to the occasion'.
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