According to a report by FIFA.com on Saturday, October 17, 2026, Morocco have become the first African nation to win a match at the ongoing 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after defeating New Zealand 4-0 in their opening Group A fixture on Saturday.

The Atlas Lionesses delivered an impressive performance on home soil to secure all three points, making a strong start to their campaign at the tournament.

Morocco dominated the encounter but had to wait until the second half to break the deadlock against a determined New Zealand side.

Sonia Abajiou opened the scoring in the 57th minute, rising highest to head home a cross from Hiba Youssoufi on the right flank.

Morocco doubled their advantage in the 70th minute when New Zealand defender Eden Chaytor turned the ball into her own net following an attempt by substitute Nessma Mouradi.

The hosts continued to press forward, with Imane Dhissi extending their lead in the 76th minute after a well-worked team move that began on the left flank.

Youssoufi then completed the emphatic victory by converting a penalty in the 82nd minute, capping an outstanding individual performance that earned her the Player of the Match award.

The victory gives Morocco an encouraging start in Group A as they seek to progress to the knockout stages of the competition.

It also represents a positive moment for African women's youth football, with the hosts taking advantage of home support to announce their intentions on the global stage.

Morocco will next face Germany on Tuesday, October 20, before concluding their group-stage campaign against Argentina on Friday, October 23.

The 2026 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup is being held in Morocco from October 17 to November 8, with 24 national teams competing for the title.