Morocco U17 Secures Quarter-Final Spot with 1-0 Win Over Nigeria in AFCON

The team’s coach, Said Chiba, praised the defensive efficiency of his team, which only managed 3 shots on target, scored on one and won 32 tackles in the match, while obtaining 44 clearances with 17 defensive interceptions.

"The match was very difficult and we did not have easy scoring opportunities. But we used one of the three chances we had. We knew that Nigeria knew some of our tactics and we knew we had to be effective in attack. We were patient and organized throughout the game and I am satisfied with our performance," Chiba said.

The tactician did admit, however, that his team needs to do better offensively, create more chances and ensure that it can win matches more comfortably. The U17s have already secured their ticket to the quarter-finals, which will allow the coach to rotate his squad during the last group match against Zambia.

"We want to make sure we are fresh for the quarter-finals so that most of the players who were involved in the first two games are rested and we also give a chance to the others," said the Moroccan coach.