U17 AFCON: Zambia holds hosts Morocco to a barren tie

The Atlas Lions struggled to find the back of the net but still topped the group, four points ahead of Zambia on goal difference.

Morocco’s U17 side were held to a nil-nil draw by Zambia in their second match in the group stage at the Africa Cup of Nations in Mohammedia.

Nabil Baha’s team dominated possession but failed to convert their chances. Morocco pushed high from the start to break down Zambia’s low defensive block but the frontline struggled to find space as Zambia stayed compact and disciplined.

Zambia showed little interest in attacking early on, sitting deep and frustrating the hosts. Ilies Belmokhtar made several attempts to carve open the defense, but Zambia held firm.

After the break, the pattern continued. Morocco pressed forward, while Zambia stayed back. Baha’s side’s task became more difficult when the referee sent off captain Hamza Bouhadi midway through the second half.

Zambia responded by pushing higher and tested goalkeeper Alaa Belaarouch, who made key saves to keep the scores level.

Head coach Nabil Baha made changes but Morocco struggled to create clear chances. Belmokhtar had a golden opportunity in the final minutes of the game but his shot went well over the bar.

In the post-match press conference, Baha said: “We controlled the match but couldn’t finish. The red card changed things. We’ll review the game and prepare for Tanzania.”

Morocco struggled to find the back of the net but still topped the group, four points ahead of Zambia on goal difference.

The Atlas Lions face Tanzania on April 6 at 8 p.m. in their final group game.