Balaarouch Leads Morocco to U17 World Cup Round of 16 After Penalty Shootout Victory Over USA (4-3)

The Moroccan national team has qualified for the Round of 16 at the U17 World Cup, following their 4-3 penalty shootout victory over their American counterparts today, Friday, in the Round of 32 match of the youth tournament.

In the first half, the American team managed to score the only goal in the 21st minute, prompting the Moroccan team to intensify their offensive attempts in search of an equalizer, but without effectiveness.

After the break, the national squad continued their pressure with the aim of finding the American net, yet all attempts proved unsuccessful. Conversely, the referee awarded a penalty to the American team, but they failed to convert it into a second goal in the 59th minute.

In the 90th minute, Abdelouazzane scored a crucial equalizer for the Moroccan team with a magnificent individual effort, reviving the team's hopes and leading the referee to call for extra time.

Following extra time, which saw no further goals, the match proceeded to a penalty shootout, where Morocco emerged victorious with a 4-3 scoreline.