Rabat – Morocco’s U17 women’s national team will face Argentina on Friday, in their final Group A match at the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup, with both sides seeking a place in the round of 16.
The Lioncelles enter the encounter second in the group with three points, ahead of Argentina on goal difference. A victory or draw would secure Morocco’s place in the knockout stage.
Match Details
- Fixture: Argentina vs Morocco
- Competition: FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup 2026, Group A
- Date: Friday, October 23
- Kickoff: 6 p.m. Moroccan time
- Venue: Mohammed VI Football Complex, Salé
- Where to watch: Arryadia TNT, beIN Sports
Morocco team news
Youness Rabie’s side began their campaign with a convincing 4-0 victory over New Zealand before suffering a 4-2 defeat against Germany on Tuesday.
Morocco trailed 4-0 against the Germans but responded with two second-half goals through Nessma Mouradi.
Captain Celia Bouzman acknowledged the team’s poor first-half performance and promised a stronger response against Argentina.
“We’re going to treat this last match like a final. We’ll give everything we have,” she told FIFA.
Rabie also maintained the importance of a collective response and confirmed that his staff would prepare a plan to secure victory.
The Lioncelles completed their final training session on Thursday, with the coach working on tactical and physical preparations ahead of the encounter.
Argentina team news
Argentina also have three points after losing 2-1 to Germany in their opening match before defeating New Zealand 2-0.
Coach Christian Meloni’s side will rely heavily on Mercedes Diz, who has scored all three of Argentina’s goals in the tournament.
Captain Agustina Maldonado expressed confidence in her team’s ability to compete against the hosts.
“I think it’s going to be a great match, a real spectacle,” she told FIFA, adding that Argentina must maintain their aggressive counter-pressing approach.
What to expect
Morocco’s main challenge will be avoiding another difficult start after conceding four goals against Germany.
Rabie’s players will need to limit Argentina’s attacking opportunities, particularly those involving Diz, while making better use of their chances in front of goal.
Morocco’s superior goal difference gives them an advantage in the standings, although Argentina can move ahead of the hosts with a victory.
A win or draw would guarantee Morocco second place and a return to the round of 16, equaling their best performance at the tournament in 2025.
With home supporters behind them, the Lioncelles have an opportunity to extend their World Cup campaign without relying on results elsewhere.
Read Also: Infantino: Morocco’s U-17 Women’s World Cup ‘Brings the World Together’
