King Mohammed VI congratulates Lion Cubs for winning their first U-17 AFCON cup

King Mohammed VI has sent a message of congratulations to the Moroccan football team following their triumph at the 2025 U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

“Following the Moroccan U-17 national football team’s victory at the 2025 AFCON—hosted by our country with generous hospitality and a warm welcome—it gives me great pleasure to extend my warmest congratulations on this well-earned African title,” the King wrote in the message.

“As I take great pride in congratulating you on this historic first-ever continental achievement,I highly commend the efforts made by all members of our young national team—emerging players,coaches,technical staff—as well as the officials and leadership of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation,to secure this major title,” the Sovereign emphasized.

The King lauded the brilliant journey of the Lion Cubs throughout the competition,their promising football talent and performances,strong competitive spirit,and deep sense of patriotism,which enabled them to secure and retain the Cup on home soil,further reaffirming the prominent stature of Moroccan football on both the continental and global stage.

The Monarch said he was deeply confident that this victory would be a great source of motivation and a model for young athletes and Moroccan youth to follow,with a view to persevering and striving for greater performances and awards in continental and international sporting competition,across all categories and disciplines.

The King implored the Almighty to guide the steps of the national team’s members,wishing them more accomplishments and success in their promising careers and assuring them of his high solicitude and benevolence.

Morocco’s victory comes two years after finishing as runners-up to Senegal. The Atlas Lion Cubs crushed Uganda 5-0 in their opener and thrashed Tanzania 3-0 before a goalless draw against Zambia. They ousted South Africa in the quarter finals after a 3-0 win and knocked out Ivory Coast in the semi-finals after a 4-3 shoot-out victory following a goalless draw.

After becoming Africa’s champions,the Moroccan U-17 national football team qualified for the FIFA World Cup finals to take place in Qatar Nov.3-27.