Morocco hold fate in own hands after Germany defeat at U17 Women's World Cup

Morocco lost to Germany but remain in control of their qualification hopes. Beaten 4-2 on Tuesday 20 October at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Salé, the Atlas Lionesses must take at least a point against Argentina on Friday 23 October to reach the round of 16 as one of the top two sides in Group A.

Youness Rabie's side go into the final group game with three points, won in their opening 4-0 victory over New Zealand. Their response against the Germans could not prevent defeat, but the two goals they scored after falling 4-0 behind leave them with a healthy goal difference ahead of the meeting with Argentina.

Germany make the difference before the break

The second round of fixtures first exposed Morocco's struggles against ruthless German finishing. Marie Kleemann opened the scoring in the 27th minute, before Lena-Joy Martens doubled the lead seven minutes later. In first-half stoppage time, Clara Choisy made it three (45+2).

After the interval, Mia Giesen converted a penalty in the 50th minute. At 4-0, the Germans had built a commanding lead. The Moroccans nevertheless managed to pull two goals back, without ever threatening to overturn the result.

Mouradi's brace limits the damage

Nessma Mouradi scored first in the 64th minute, then converted a penalty in stoppage time (90+5). Her brace gives the final scoreline a more respectable look and keeps the Lionesses in a promising position heading into the last round of games.

That attacking reaction should not mask the four goals conceded. To continue their run on home soil, the Moroccans will need to find greater solidity, while drawing on their ability to fight back after a difficult start.

Against Argentina, a draw would do

The last match will be decisive for second place. Argentina, beaten 2-1 by Germany in their opener, responded by beating New Zealand 2-0. Like Morocco, they have three points after two rounds. The Germans have six and have already qualified for the round of 16.

The Lionesses have an overall goal difference of +2, against +1 for the Argentines. A win would seal qualification. A draw would also be enough: both teams would then finish on four points, with Morocco keeping that advantage.

The top two in each of the six groups and the four best third-placed teams go through to the round of 16. The best-third-placed route therefore remains another possibility for the Moroccans, though there is no guarantee at this stage. By taking at least a point on Friday, they would avoid that wait.