Morocco U17 Fall to Portugal U17, Losing 6

Morocco's hopes of early qualification from Group D of the FIFA U17 World Cup took a major hit after a heavy 6–0 loss to Portugal in their second group match in Qatar.

Morocco’s U17 team had a tough night in Qatar as they lost 6–0 to Portugal in the second group stage match of the FIFA U17 World Cup. Morocco were already under pressure after losing 2–0 to Japan in their opener.

That result meant Morocco needed a performance against Portugal to stay in the hunt in Group B which also includes New Caledonia.

Portugal’s team — the European U17 champions — showed why they were one of the favourites in the tournament from the start.

Portugal’s team started great, kept hold of the ball and moved it with confidence. After two goals in the 20th and 22nd minutes, the situation got worse for Morocco when Portugal added a third goal just before the half-hour mark.

Portugal took full control of the match

Coach Nabil Baha made two substitutions at 3 down to bring back some composure but just before halftime, Moroccan goalkeeper Bellaarouch fouled in the box and conceded a penalty which Portugal converted to make it 4–0.

In the second half it didn’t get any better for Morocco. Portugal scored again just after the restart to make it 5–0 and then again at the 60th minute.

Portugal’s young players were in control all along and Morocco were struggling to keep up with their pace and precision.

Now the young Atlas Cubs have to regroup quickly. They will face New Caledonia in the final group match and have to win if they want to stay in the running to advance as one of the best third-placed teams.