Morocco’s U23 national team now knows its first obstacle on the road to the 2027 Africa U23 Cup of Nations in Egypt, following Tuesday’s qualifying draw at the Confederation of African Football headquarters in Cairo.
The Atlas Cubs were handed a second-round tie against the winner of the opening-round clash between Ethiopia and Uganda, with Morocco among the nations receiving a bye from the first stage.
Morocco Enter in the Second Round
The second-round fixtures are scheduled to take place between November 9 and 17, with the ties played over two legs.
Morocco will be aiming to make a strong start to their qualification campaign as they look to defend the continental title they won in 2023.
Should the Atlas Cubs overcome their first opponent, they will advance to the final qualifying round, where another two-legged tie awaits.
A Potential Final Challenge
Morocco could face the winner of Senegal against the winner of Djibouti and South Sudan in the final qualifying round.
The qualification tournament will consist of three knockout rounds, with seven teams ultimately joining hosts Egypt at the 2027 Africa U23 Cup of Nations.
For Morocco, the route presents another opportunity for a talented generation of young players to make their mark on the continental stage.
Defending Champions
The Atlas Cubs enter the qualifiers as reigning champions after making history in 2023.
Playing on home soil, Morocco defeated Egypt 2-1 after extra time in the final to secure their first-ever U23 Africa Cup of Nations title.
That triumph established Morocco as one of the leading forces in African youth football and set the foundation for another ambitious campaign.
More Than a Continental Title
The 2027 tournament carries added importance because it will also serve as Africa’s pathway to the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
Seven nations will emerge from the qualifying campaign to join Egypt, creating an eight-team tournament in which the continent’s Olympic representatives will ultimately be decided.
Morocco therefore have two major objectives ahead: defend their continental crown and secure another place on the Olympic stage.
The road begins in November, with the Atlas Cubs ready to take their first step toward another historic campaign.