Morocco’s preparations for hosting the CAN U17 continue to raise concerns after they were beaten 1-0 by Egypt in Sousse on Friday.
The result at the Olympic Stadium of Sousse was Morocco’s second defeat in as many matches in the Union nord-africaine de football (UNAF) tournament, which serves as a qualifier for the CAN U17 finals.
Morocco had an early opportunity to take control when Egypt were awarded a penalty in the ninth minute. Iyad Hamzi, the goalkeeper from Mohammed VI Football Academy, saved the spot-kick to keep the score level.
However, the reprieve lasted only two minutes. Egypt took the lead in the 11th minute after Morocco lost possession on the right side.
The Egyptian player was allowed to advance towards the edge of the Morocco penalty area without being challenged before finding the bottom-right corner with an unstoppable shot, leaving Hamzi with no chance.
Morocco, who have already qualified automatically for the CAN U17 as hosts, remain without a point after two matches. Their opening game ended in a 1-0 defeat by Algeria.
Nabil Baha’s side will now look to recover against Tunisia on Monday, when they play their third and final match of the tournament.
Egypt, meanwhile, have secured their place in the final phase after winning both of their matches. The Pharaohs began the tournament with a 2-1 victory over Tunisia before overcoming Morocco.
They will face Algeria in their final match. Algeria are under pressure to produce a result after suffering a 4-1 defeat by Tunisia earlier on Friday.
