AFCON U23 Qualifiers: Morocco and Ethiopia Set for November Showdown

08:20

Morocco’s U23 national football team is preparing for a decisive two-legged encounter against Ethiopia as both sides compete for a place in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) U23 tournament.

The two qualifying matches are scheduled for November 12 and 17, with the Moroccan side set to play the first leg away from home before welcoming Ethiopia in Rabat for the return fixture.

First Leg Set for Dire Dawa

The opening encounter will take place on Thursday, November 12, at Dire Dawa Stadium in Ethiopia, with kick-off scheduled for 4:00 p.m. local time, corresponding to 1:00 p.m. in Morocco.

The match will be officiated by Malagasy referee Andriatsara Arnaud Zafimahatoha, who will be assisted by fellow Malagasy officials Larenion Miladera and Ravoavy Hasinoro Fitiavana.

Playing away from home will present an important challenge for Morocco, which will seek to secure a positive result ahead of the decisive second leg.

Morocco to Host the Return Match in Rabat

The second encounter is scheduled for Tuesday, November 17, at Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat. Kick-off is set for 3:30 p.m. local time.

Nigerian referee Abubakar Abdallah has been appointed to oversee the return fixture, with Ahmed Tijani Mustapha and Tejiri Besmart Digbori serving as assistant referees.

The return match will give Morocco the opportunity to capitalize on home advantage as the team pursues qualification for the continental competition.

A Crucial Test for Morocco’s Young Lions

The two fixtures represent an important stage in Morocco’s U23 campaign, with the national team aiming to maintain its presence among Africa’s competitive youth football sides.

The outcome of the double-header will determine which team advances in the qualification process, making both encounters particularly significant for the ambitions of the two national squads.

The appointments of the match officials and the dates of both fixtures were communicated by the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, citing information from the Confederation of African Football (CAF).