Rabat – Morocco lost to Ecuador 0-2 today in the second matchday of the U-17 World Cup’s group stage, at Gelora Bung Tomo Stadium in Indonesia.
The first half ended in a tame scoreless draw, with Morocco attempting two shots on target against zero attempts on the Ecuadorian side.
Michael Bermudez scored Ecuador’s goal in the 62nd minute from a penalty kick.
During stoppage time, Bermudez capitalized on an error from the Moroccan defense to score Ecuador’s second goal and secure his team’s victory.
Morocco is in Group A alongside Ecuador, Panama, and host country Indonesia.
With the win, Morocco now ranks second in the group with three points, with Ecuador in first with four points and Indonesia in third place with a single point. Panama is in last place with zero points, pending its upcoming game against Indonesia.
The Atlas Lions had won the opening game against Panama 2-0 on November 10, through goals by Saifdine Chlaghmo and Ayman Ennair.
Morocco will face host nation Indonesia on November 16 to mark the end of the group stage.
Morocco participated in the tournament once before in 2013, when they reached the round of 16, winning against Croatia and Panama, and drawing against Uzbekistan.
During this second participation, the Atlas Lions are hoping to break their previous record, carrying on the momentum established by the senior men’s and women’s teams in their world cups.
Moroccan right-back Naoufel El Hannach emphasized recently that the players are “keen to deliver a good performance during this World Cup.”
Read also: Head Coach Said Chiba Satisfied With Morocco’s Win in U-17 World Cup
