AFCON U23 2027: Morocco Faces Ethiopia in Crucial Qualifying Opener

10:45

Morocco’s U23 national football team is preparing to begin its journey towards the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations with an away encounter against Ethiopia on Thursday, November 12. The opening fixture of the second qualifying round represents the first major test for the Atlas Cubs as they seek to secure a place in the continental tournament.

The match will take place at Dire Dawa Stadium in Ethiopia, with kick-off scheduled for 1:00 p.m. Moroccan time (4:00 p.m. local time). Having received a bye in the opening qualifying round, Morocco enters the competition at this stage, aiming to establish an advantage before the return fixture on home soil.

Morocco Targets a Positive Result Away From Home

Head coach Jamal Aït Ben Idir has selected a 25-player squad for the two-legged encounter, with the objective of navigating the Ethiopian challenge and strengthening Morocco’s chances of progressing to the next stage.

The Moroccan delegation arrived in Ethiopia on Wednesday morning after departing Morocco the previous evening. The early arrival is expected to give the players an opportunity to adapt to local conditions and prepare for the first leg.

Securing a favourable result away from home will be particularly important, as Morocco will have the opportunity to complete the qualification battle in front of its supporters.

Rabat Set to Host the Decisive Return Fixture

The second leg is scheduled for Tuesday, November 17, at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat. The encounter will begin at 3:30 p.m. Moroccan time, giving the Atlas Cubs the advantage of playing at home for the conclusion of this qualifying tie.

The coaching staff will be looking to ensure that the team returns from Ethiopia in a strong position, allowing the players to approach the second match with greater confidence.

A Qualification Race With Olympic Ambitions

Beyond the immediate objective of eliminating Ethiopia, Morocco's campaign carries broader ambitions. Reaching the final tournament of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations U23 would represent an important milestone in the development of the country's next generation of footballers.

The competition also forms part of the wider qualification pathway towards the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, adding further significance to every stage of the campaign.

The first-leg match will be officiated by Malagasy referee Andriatsara Arnaud Zafimahatoha, assisted by compatriots Larenion Miladera and Ravoavy Hasinoro Fitiavana. Nigerian referee Abubakar Abdallah has been appointed to oversee the return encounter in Rabat.

For Morocco, the immediate priority is clear: return from Dire Dawa with a result that puts the team in a favourable position ahead of the decisive home fixture.