Mediterranean Games 2026: Morocco Falls to Italy but Maintains Second Place

07:32

The U17 Lionesses of the Atlas suffered their first defeat in the women's football tournament of the Mediterranean Games 2026. Defeated 3-1 by Italy on Thursday at the end of the fourth day, the Moroccans still remain in second place in the standings with seven points.

Morocco's journey faced its first setback at the Mediterranean Games 2026. After three unbeaten matches, the national U17 women's team was dominated by Italy on Thursday, August 27, with a score of 3 goals to 1.

The Lionesses of the Atlas had started their match perfectly. Sara El Hajouti found the back of the net in the 13th minute, giving Morocco the lead and rewarding an aggressive start.

However, Italy gradually regained control of the match before turning the situation around and ultimately winning by two goals.

Second Place Still Secure

Despite this setback, the Moroccan team maintains a favorable position in the standings. With 7 points after four matches, it still occupies the second place in the tournament.

The Moroccans started the competition convincingly, dominating Slovenia (4-0). They then secured a dramatic draw against Portugal (2-2), before bouncing back with a victory against Kosovo (4-0).

With ten goals scored in their first three outings, Morocco had shown impressive offensive efficiency before facing their first setback against Italy.

Final Day Without Morocco

The Moroccan team will be exempt from the fifth and final day of the tournament, scheduled for Saturday.

Italy will face Portugal while Slovenia will take on Kosovo. These two matches could still alter the final standings and determine the ultimate position of the Lionesses of the Atlas.

Morocco now has seven points and will have to wait for the results of this final day to know the definitive outcome of its campaign.