Host Morocco Falls to Brazil in FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup Opener

Rabat, Morocco – The 2025 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup kicked off with a disappointing result for the host nation, Morocco, as they suffered a 3-0 defeat to a clinical Brazil side in the tournament's opening match at the Rabat Olympic Stadium.

In the first-ever FIFA Women's World Cup staged on African soil, the Atlas Lionesses were unable to contain the South American powerhouse in the Group A curtain-raiser on Friday, October 17.

Brazil wasted no time, with Evelin scoring the tournament's first goal in the 12th minute. Brazilian captain Giovanna Waksman, who was named Player of the Match, doubled the lead in the 36th minute with a spectacular effort, and Allyne sealed the commanding victory with a third goal in the 75th minute.

Despite the support of a passionate home crowd, Morocco’s young squad struggled to match the experience and intensity of the Brazilians. Moroccan head coach, Anwar Mghinia, acknowledged the challenge, stating after the game, "This loss will be an important lesson for us, and we will learn from it, as most of the players are experiencing their first official match in their careers. What they learned today could not have been gained in any previous match, which is why the next match will be better. This is what we promise to our dear fans."

Morocco, drawn in a tough Group A alongside Brazil, Italy, and Costa Rica, will now regroup as they look ahead to their next matches in the competition. The team remains focused on their goal of becoming the first host nation to advance past the group stage.

The tournament continues with matches across various groups as 24 teams vie for the coveted trophy.