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Rabat — Morocco’s U20 national team kicked off their 2025 CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) campaign with a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Kenya on Thursday.
In a match filled with momentum shifts, the young Atlas Lions showcased their resilience and attacking prowess to secure a crucial three points in Group B, which also includes continental heavyweights Nigeria and Tunisia.
Kenya struck first through Okoth in the 16th minute, capitalizing on a defensive lapse to take an early lead. Morocco responded just before the halftime whistle, as Yassir Zabiri leveled the score in added time (45+3’) with a composed finish after a determined solo run.
Zabiri continued his standout performance in the second half, putting Morocco ahead with his second goal in the 55th minute, giving the team a temporary cushion.
However, Kenya refused to back down and clawed their way back into the match when Kitsao equalized in the 71st minute, punishing a lapse in Morocco’s backline.
Just as the game seemed destined for a draw, substitute Laalaoui delivered the decisive blow in the 78th minute, slotting home what proved to be the match-winner and sealing a vital win for Morocco.
The referee added seven minutes of stoppage time, during which both teams pushed forward in search of another goal. The final moments were intense, with Morocco fending off a determined Kenyan side while looking to extend their lead through counterattacks.
Morocco’s tactical maturity was evident in their structured buildup play and ability to respond under pressure. Despite conceding twice, the team maintained composure and exploited spaces in the Kenyan defense through wide runs and quick transitions.
The result provides an encouraging start for Morocco in their quest to qualify for the FIFA U20 World Cup. It also reinforces the rising statue of Moroccan youth football, following recent successes by the U17 national team and the women’s futsal squad.
With momentum on their side, Morocco will now turn their focus to their next match against Tunisia in a highly anticipated North African derby. A second win could see the Atlas Cubs book an early ticket to the knockout rounds.
