- Morocco to face Brazil, Italy, and Costa Rica in Group A at U-17 Women’s World Cup 2025
- Tournament marks the first edition hosted in Africa and the first with 24 teams
- African nations Cameroon, Nigeria, Côte d’Ivoire, and Zambia also in action
Morocco’s national U-17 women’s team will make its tournament debut in dramatic fashion, facing Brazil in the opening match of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2025 on October 17 in Rabat.
This edition of the tournament is groundbreaking: it’s the first time Africa is hosting the event and also the first to feature 24 teams, up from 16. The expansion brings broader representation and heightened competition, with five African teams — Morocco, Nigeria, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, and Zambia — aiming to make their mark in front of a global audience.
U-17 Women’s World Cup 2025: Morocco Hosts as African Teams Aim High
As the host nation, Morocco holds both a symbolic and strategic role in the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2025. The opening clash against Brazil is more than a game—it is a statement of progress for a country rapidly developing its women’s football program. With heavyweights Italy and Costa Rica also in Group A, Morocco’s journey will demand discipline, belief, and home advantage.
Cameroon’s draw into Group B alongside North Korea, Mexico, and the Netherlands presents a mix of contrasting football cultures. Known for their physicality and growing tactical awareness, the Cameroonian Lionesses aim to break past the quarterfinal ceiling that has historically limited their runs.
Nigeria’s Group D fixtures against France, Canada, and Samoa put them in familiar terrain: high-stakes competition. The Super Flamingos, recognized as one of Africa’s most consistent youth teams, will rely on their fast-paced attack and strong midfield to aim for another deep run — possibly even a semifinal berth.
Debutants Côte d’Ivoire and Zambia enter Groups E and F, respectively, as underdogs with potential. Côte d’Ivoire’s test against Spain, and Zambia’s matchup with a disciplined Japanese side, will reveal how far these emerging teams have come. Their youthful energy and unpredictable style may just turn heads.
With five African nations in contention and a historic home debut for Morocco, the U-17 Women’s World Cup 2025 promises to be a defining moment for women’s football across the continent.
“We are proud to host this historic tournament — not just for Morocco, but for African football.”
— Fouzi Lekjaa, President of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation
