Morocco wary of fearless Sierra Leone in U20 AFCON quarter-final clash
Published: Saturday, 10 May 2025
Group stage leaders Morocco will face tournament debutants Sierra Leone in the quarter-finals of the TotalEnergies CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations Egypt 2025 on Monday in Cairo, in what promises to be a compelling battle between pedigree and momentum.
The North African giants cruised through the group stage unbeaten, finishing top of Group B with seven points. Coach Mohamed Ouahbi's men began their campaign with a thrilling 3-2 win over Kenya, held Nigeria to a goalless draw, and ended with an impressive 3-1 victory over Tunisia.
Despite injury setbacks to key players like defender Abdelhamid Aït Boudlal and forward Yassir Zabiri, the Atlas Cubs have shown depth and maturity. Zabiri, who managed two goals before picking up a knock, could be crucial if passed fit.
Morocco are aiming to return to the final for the first time since 2005 and look like one of the most balanced sides in the tournament.
However, their opponents, Sierra Leone, have quickly become the story of the tournament. In their maiden U20 AFCON appearance, the Shooting Stars have already turned heads.
After a narrow opening loss to South Africa (4-1), they shocked hosts Egypt with a stunning 4-1 win and advanced following a draw against Zambia.
The standout performer has been Momoh Kamara, the tournament's top scorer so far with four goals. His powerful runs and clinical finishing have been central to Sierra Leone's historic run, and Morocco will need to find a way to contain him.
Coach Osman Kamara's side may lack tournament experience, but they make up for it with energy, belief, and fearless attacking intent. Their tactical flexibility and fast transitions have caused problems for every team they've faced.
The two sides have never met at this level before, but Morocco will know better than to underestimate a team that thrashed the host nation and has nothing to lose.
The pressure will be on the Atlas Cubs to deliver, while Sierra Leone can continue to ride their wave of belief.
Kick-off is at 15:00 GMT at the Cairo International Stadium. The winner will face either Ghana or Egypt in the semi-finals.
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