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Morocco's Youth Squad Set to Defend CHAN Title as Algeria Withdraws
Morocco's under-23 national football team has secured an automatic spot in the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), following Algeria's unexpected withdrawal from the competition. This development sets the stage for Morocco to pursue an unprecedented third CHAN title, building on their victories in 2018 and 2020.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) confirmed Morocco's qualification on Wednesday, along with Tunisia and Libya, as the only remaining teams from the North Africa zone. The decision came after Algeria, the previous host and 2022 runner-up, announced its departure from the tournament. Egypt has also opted out of participation.
Set to take place from February 1-28, 2025, the upcoming CHAN will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. This East African collaboration serves as a precursor to their hosting of the full Africa Cup of Nations in 2027.
In a strategic move, Morocco has chosen to field its under-23 squad for the 2024 CHAN, led by coach Tarik Sektioui. This decision aims to provide valuable international experience to young, domestic-based players while minimizing disruptions to the national league schedule. The same youth team will also represent Morocco at the 2024 Arab Cup in Qatar.
Walid Regragui, head coach of Morocco's senior national team, explained the rationale behind this choice: "We are prioritizing the development and exposure of our young talent. Our focus is on training and creating opportunities for youth to gain experience at the international level."
The CHAN, which restricts participation to players competing in their home country's domestic leagues, has seen Morocco emerge as a dominant force. The Atlas Lions currently hold the record for most CHAN titles, with Ayoub El Kaabi leading as the all-time top scorer with 12 goals.
As the tournament approaches, football enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating how Morocco's youth squad will fare against more experienced opponents. The 2024 CHAN presents an exciting opportunity to witness the next generation of Moroccan football talent on the continental stage, potentially cementing the country's status as a rising power in African and world football.