The highly anticipated encounter at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium delivered tension, intensity and late drama as two of Africa’s brightest youth football nations battled for a place in the final.
Morocco started strongly in front of their home supporters and looked determined to continue their title defence. The young Atlas Lions controlled possession for long spells and created several dangerous opportunities, but Senegal remained disciplined and dangerous on the counterattack.
The breakthrough eventually arrived in a fiercely contested game, with both sides refusing to back down in a tactical battle that showcased the quality of African youth football. Senegal responded brilliantly after falling behind, showing composure and resilience to force the game into penalties after the match ended 1-1 in regulation time.
The penalty shootout produced nerve-shredding moments as both teams converted crucial spot-kicks under immense pressure. Senegal eventually triumphed 7-6, with goalkeeper Assane Sarr emerging as the hero after making decisive saves to send the Young Lions of Teranga into the final.
The victory continues Senegal’s impressive run in the tournament after previously surviving another dramatic penalty shootout against Mali in the quarter-finals. Their determination and mental strength have now carried them into the championship match.
Morocco, despite the defeat, can hold their heads high after an outstanding campaign that saw them reach the semi-finals while entertaining home fans throughout the competition.
Senegal will now face Tanzania in the final of the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2026 after the East Africans defeated Egypt on penalties in the other semi-final. The final is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, June 2, in Rabat.
The result also confirms Senegal’s growing dominance in African youth football as they continue to establish themselves as one of the continent’s strongest football development nations.
Senegal defeated Morocco 7-6 on penalties after a 1-1 draw to qualify for the CAF U-17 AFCON final against Tanzania.