U-17 Women’s World Cup: Romaissa Ihssan opens up on why Morocco lost to Italy

African representatives Morocco suffered their second straight defeat in the on-going FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after they suffered a 3-1 defeat against Italy on Tuesday.

Heading into the Group A fixture, Morocco had lost the opener 3-0 against Brazil, while for Italy, they  followed up their opening victory against Costa Rica with a comfortable triumph over the hosts to punch their knockout round ticket.

Giulia Galli scored twice in an eight-minute spell early in the first half, both of which were opportunistic left-footed strikes from close range. She now has four goals so far at the global finals, putting her firmly in the lead for the adidas Golden Boot award.

Italy extended their lead when Morocco goalkeeper Ahlam Boukhorb failed to hold onto a deep free-kick from Giulia Guerzoni and Rachele Giudici tapped the ball in on the goalline, before Morocco scored their first goal of the tournament through substitute Dounia-El Yakout El Mesmoudi.

Morocco dominated but couldn’t score

Speaking after the game, Morocco midfielder Romaissa Ihssan rued missed chances saying they were the better side and deserved to come out with something from the fixture.

“I congratulate our team because we gave everything until the end despite the score. We have the youngest team in the tournament, and we’re still learning. We dominated almost the entire match but couldn’t finish in front of goal,” Ihssan said as quoted by FIFA.com.

“I’m proud of my team – there’s still one game left. It’s through matches like this that we gain experience. Thanks to all the Moroccan fans, men and women, for their presence and support.”

Italy coach Viviana Schiavi praised Morocco despite the defeat, saying they were well organised than his side. He said: “It was a tough match against a well-organised team, especially one playing at home with the support of their crowd.

“But the girls did a great job, especially in coming onto the pitch and starting off with full intensity. Then, of course, in the second half, when we came back out, we paid a bit for our attitude, but they still did well to suffer together and gradually work their way back into the game throughout the half.”

Morocco will wind up their fixtures against Costa Rica on Friday, October 24.