Doha – FIFA President Gianni Infantino has hailed Morocco as the perfect host for the upcoming U17 Women’s World Cup, describing the tournament as a major event that will showcase women’s football, particularly in Africa and the Arab world.
“Morocco continues to achieve success, demonstrating each time its ability to ensure the success of major sporting events,” Infantino said in a video message played during Wednesday’s draw ceremony at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Maâmora.
The FIFA chief noted that the global football governing body intends to capitalize on the country’s proven experience and expertise to boost women’s football development throughout Africa and the Arab region. He pointed out that Morocco, “a fabulous country and land of football, is the first African country to host this World Cup.”
Infantino explained that this high-stakes tournament will serve as a crucial platform to uncover emerging talent, giving young female players worldwide a golden opportunity to showcase their skills on the global stage.
For his part, Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) President Fouzi Lekjaa welcomed the 24 participating nations to Morocco, describing it as a “land of hospitality, civilization and prosperity.”
Lekjaa said the Mohammed VI Football Complex, venue for yesterday’s draw, represents an “emblematic sports facility that embodies the exceptional development Morocco is experiencing under the reign of King Mohammed VI.” He continued that this world-class facility reflects the King’s dedicated interest in athletes, particularly young talents.
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Lekjaa also emphasized the place women occupy in the national sports sphere, noting that promoting equality and parity remains fundamental in the country’s development process.
FIFA Tournament Sub-division Director Jaime Yarza praised Morocco’s track record in hosting major sporting events and the country’s passionate football culture. He stressed that these were the reasons why the North African country was chosen to host the next five editions of the competition.
“We are confident that Morocco will do everything to ensure the success of this event,” Yarza mentioned. He described Morocco’s infrastructure as “exceptional,” adding: “The infrastructure is modern and professional. Morocco now has nothing to envy from major European countries.”
On Monday, FIFA unveiled the logo for the next five editions of the tournament. The emblem features the trophy represented in the “U” of “U17,” symbolizing the collaboration between FIFA and Morocco while honoring talented young female footballers determined to pursue their dreams.
According to FIFA, this modern and dynamic logo cultivates the heritage of the U17 Women’s World Cup while foreshadowing the future of women’s football. The logo will be visible in Morocco over the next five years, as the country hosts the event annually until 2029.
Blockbuster Group A
Wednesday’s draw placed Morocco in a challenging group. The Atlas Lionesses will face Brazil, Italy, and Costa Rica in Group A. Following the draw, Morocco’s U17 women’s national team coach Anwar Mghinia said preparations for the World Cup will be adjusted according to the opponents in his team’s group.
“We will prepare properly to shine at home and in front of our fans,” Mghinia told the press. He explained that in such competitions, teams must always expect to face the best opponents, noting that all 24 qualified teams are strong and will play all out to defend their chances.
“We will adapt our preparations and schedule friendly matches based on our opponents in the group,” he stated. “We will play without pressure and manage each match according to its particularities.”
The tournament kicks off on October 17 and runs through November 8, featuring an expanded format of 24 teams for the first time, up from the previous 16-team structure.
