Morocco U17 head coach Nabil Baha has responded to criticism over a gesture he made towards the crowd during his side’s 3-1 victory over South Africa in the quarter-finals of the U17 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The incident occurred after Baha’s son, Ziyad, scored Morocco’s second goal to give the hosts a 2-1 lead. Baha appeared to motion towards supporters in the stands at Stade El Bachir in Mohammedia, which many interpreted as telling supporters to be quiet.
The gesture triggered criticism online, with some fans accusing Baha of arrogance and nepotism.
“Favouritism and connections are alive and well in Moroccan football,” one fan wrote. “The gesture was childish. At that moment, I was hoping we’d lose.”
“That clueless crowd deserved it,” one comment read. “Just wait. Burkina Faso will shut you up properly.”
However, speaking after the match, Baha rejected the claims, insisting his intention had been misinterpreted.
“I asked the crowd to raise their voices,” he said. “I felt the players needed more support at that moment. We were up against a strong opponent, and the players needed to feel the fans behind them.”
“The fans responded brilliantly and created an incredible atmosphere that helped us get back into the game. I thank them sincerely — their support was crucial.”
He called for focus to return to the team’s achievement.
“We should be celebrating this qualification and the performance of the players. This generation deserves our support. Let’s concentrate on football”.
One comment added sarcastically, “And on top of it, he lies to our faces. He thinks we’re stupid.”
Morocco will face their next challenge in the semi-finals as they continue their pursuit of the title.
