Morocco’s youth football structure is entering a new phase. According to Hesport, the Royal Moroccan Football Federation has reached a final agreement with Portuguese coach Tiago Lima Pereira to take charge of the national Under-17 team, succeeding Nabil Baha.
The 39-year-old technician is expected to officially assume his role during the next international break, beginning preparations for upcoming continental and global competitions.
A European Development Profile for the Atlas Cubs
Tiago Lima Pereira previously worked within the youth academy structure of SL Benfica, one of Europe’s most recognized talent factories. Benfica’s academy is associated with structured player development, tactical organization, and strong technical foundations.
His appointment suggests that Morocco aims to reinforce methodological discipline at youth level while continuing to modernize its technical framework. The federation appears focused on maintaining high standards following recent U17 successes.
Strategic Continuity with Nabil Baha
The change does not represent a break from past achievements. Nabil Baha, who guided Morocco to the U17 Africa Cup of Nations title and reached the quarter-finals of the U17 World Cup in Qatar, is expected to oversee the U16 national team.
This rotation reflects a broader strategy: retain experienced national coaches while injecting fresh international perspectives into key age categories.
As Morocco strengthens its long-term football vision toward 2030, youth development remains central. The key question now is whether Tiago Lima Pereira can build on recent momentum and prepare the next generation of Atlas Lions for sustained continental and global success.
Source: Hesport
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