Morocco secured the CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations for the first time by defeating Mali 4-2 on penalties after a goalless draw in the final at Stade El Bachir in Mohammedia.

Moroccan goalkeeper Zakaria Alaoui made two crucial saves in the shootout, exciting the home fans after a closely contested match.

This victory marks Morocco’s first title at this level, just two years after finishing as runners-up to Senegal. For Mali, it was tough to lose in their fifth finals, despite a strong performance.

Neither team scored in regular time, though both had chances. Morocco’s Ilies Belmokhtar and Ahmed Mouhoub threatened from distance, while Mali’s Seydou Dembélé and Soumaila Fané were active but lacked accuracy. A potential goal from Mali was ruled out by VAR for a handball.

In the penalty shootout, Morocco scored all four attempts—Ziyad Baha, Zakari El Khalfioui, Amine Ouahabi, and Ilies Belmokhtar—all converted. Mali’s Issa Koné and Lamine Keita had their penalties saved.

Coach Nabil Baha praised his team’s composure, noting they conceded just one goal in the tournament. Mali aimed for their third U-17 title but fell short against the resilient Moroccan side.