U-17 Women’s World Cup: Anwar Mghinia hails Morocco after qualifying

Morocco women’s U-17 national team became the first African nation to qualify for the knockout stages of the on-going FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup after overcoming Costa Rica 3-1 at Olympic Stadium Annex Sports Complex Prince Moulay Abdellah on Friday.

A pair of first-half goals from Mayssa Baha paved the way for a Morocco victory against Costa Rica, sending the host nation to the knockout round, while eliminating the Ticas.

Costa Rica attempted to pull a goal back and make it a nervy end, but Morocco’s defence held firm and then cemented the points when a free-kick was played into the area and Costa Rica defender Fabiana Alfaro headed into her own net.

Though Costa Rica pulled a consolation following an excellent left-footed finish from Naima Moya, it was too late as the host African nation booked their place in the next stage.

‘My players showed remarkable performance’

Speaking after the game, the Young Atlas Lionesses coach Anwar Mghinia praised the character of her players for winning the game in an emphatic style.

“Thanks to God for this achievement, it’s a reward for the players’ efforts, but not much has changed; we played with the same system, the same style, and the same spirit as in the first two matches,” Mghinia told FIFA.com.

“The only difference is that we weren’t lucky before, but today we were, thank God. I want to emphasize once again that the spirit and sense of responsibility our players show are truly remarkable, especially given how young they are.

“Congratulations to all of us, to everyone who supported us, to the Moroccan federation, and to the coaching staff.”

Morocco deserved to beat Costa Rica

Speaking on behalf of the players, goalkeeper Salma Assahl told the same portal: “It was a really good match. We deserved the win because we fought hard for it.

“I’d like to thank the coaching staff for their efforts with us, both mentally and physically. The coach told us to play as a team and to stay united no matter the circumstances (after losing the first two matches).”

Morocco picked up three points in the group, scored three goals and conceded one in this game.

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