The 2025 Total Energies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Championship kicked off with a thrilling encounter at El Bachir Stadium in Mohammedia, as hosts Morocco thrashed Uganda 5-0 in the opening match.
Aït Cheikh’s goal, coupled with a brace each from duo Ziyad Baha and Ilies Belmokhtar, sealed the impressive victory for the North African giants.
The home team wasted no time in finding their footing, with Ilies Belmokhtar scoring the opening goal in the 3rd minute, earning him the player of the match award.
Morocco continued their dominant start, with Aït Cheikh doubling the lead just five minutes later, heading in a beautifully delivered cross from Abdellah Ouazane.
The Ugandan team conceded a penalty in the 23rd minute, which was calmly converted by Real Betis forward Ziyad Baha, following a VAR intervention.
Morocco’s clinical attacking play led to another goal, with Belmokhtar scoring his second of the night, making it 4-0 after the half-hour mark.
By the end of the first half, Morocco had asserted their dominance in front of their home crowd, with a convincing 4-0 lead.
Uganda attempted to regroup and contain the relentless Moroccan side upon returning to the pitch, but Baha’s second goal in the 71st minute, courtesy of an assist from substitute El Aoud, sealed the 5-0 victory for the hosts.
Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) president, Hon Moses Magogo Hassim, was in attendance as Uganda suffered their heaviest defeat ever at the expanded tournament.
To revive their chances of qualifying for the FIFA U-17 World Cup, the CECAFA Champions will need to secure a win in their next match against regional neighbors Tanzania.
