Morocco's path to the 2026 U17 AFCON semi-finals: Hosts on a mission to defend their crown

Hosts Morocco reached the semi-finals of the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations, defeating Cameroon 1-0 in a hard-fought quarter-final to keep alive their bid to retain the title they won on home soil previously. 

The young Atlas Lions topped Group A with seven points from three matches, showcasing a blend of attacking flair and defensive solidity. 

They opened with a 1-1 draw against Tunisia, followed by a 2-1 victory over Ethiopia featuring goals from Amine Mohamed Moustache and Imrane Talai. In the decisive group clash, they edged Egypt 2-1, with Moustache and Talai again on the scoresheet. 

This unbeaten group campaign set up a quarter-final against a strong Cameroon side. In a tense encounter at the stadium in Salé, Morocco took an early lead and then produced a defensive masterclass to hold firm against Cameroon's pressure, securing progression with composure under the Rabat lights. 

Key to their success has been a core of talented individuals. Ibrahim Rabbaj, with his Chelsea pedigree, has been a constant threat in attack, while Imran Talai's clinical finishing and Ismail El Aoud's midfield control have provided balance. Captain Hamza Bouhadi anchors the defence with leadership and solidity.

Portuguese coach Tiago Lima Pereira has had a significant impact, instilling tactical discipline and confidence in a squad drawn heavily from the renowned Mohammed VI Academy. 

His emphasis on managing difficult moments and blending youth with structure has turned the hosts into genuine contenders once more. 

As defending champions and tournament favourites, Morocco now face a heavyweight semi-final against Senegal on Thursday at Moulay El Hassan Stadium (kick-off 20:00 local time).

A victory would book their place in the final and strengthen their claim as one of Africa's premier youth football nations. 

The clash promises drama, with both sides boasting rich attacking talent and semi-final pedigree.