CAF Changes U17 AFCON Final Kickoff time amid laser controversy
The African Football Confederation (CAF) has officially moved the U17 AFCON final between Morocco and Mali from 8 PM to 3 PM local time (2 PM GMT) this Thursday, following reports of laser disruptions during Morocco’s semi-final win over Côte d’Ivoire.
While CAF’s statement did not specify reasons, sources suggest the adjustment aims to prevent a repeat of Tuesday’s incidents, where lasers targeted players during penalties (0-0, 4-3 on pens). Morocco’s coach Nabil Baha remained unfazed: “We’re ready to play at any time,” he stated in Thursday’s press briefing.
The decision comes after initial confusion, as CAF’s website briefly displayed conflicting schedules. Mali, seeking their first title, must now adapt to the earlier start.
