Senegal U-17 team beats Morocco 7-6 on penalties to reach Africa U-17 final
Senegal's under-17 national team secured another dramatic victory over hosts Morocco on Thursday, advancing to the Africa U-17 Cup of Nations final after winning 7-6 on penalties following a 1-1 draw at Prince Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat. The Young Lions of Teranga continued their impressive rise in African youth football by frustrating the Atlas Lions on home soil.
Goalkeeper Assane Sarr emerged as the hero with crucial saves during the shootout, sending Senegal through to face Tanzania in the final. Senegal took the lead in the 23rd minute through Mouhamed Wagne, who reacted quickest after Commissaire Faye's initial effort was parried. Morocco equalized in stoppage time when Ismail El Aoud scored from the rebound after Assane Sarr saved his initial penalty.
This victory comes months after Senegal's controversial triumph over Morocco in the senior AFCON final, which was later overturned in favor of the North Africans. The result keeps Senegal's hopes alive for another continental title while continuing their impressive dominance in African youth competitions.