North African youth football and Eredivisie updates

North African youth football is entering a period of intense preparation. Morocco has announced a 28-player squad for its U17 team ahead of the World Cup in Qatar, featuring talents like Akram Jadid and Nassim Laarej. The team will use the Copa España to prepare for group stage matches against Spain, China, and Fiji.

Algeria is also mobilizing its youth ranks. The U17 squad, led by Amine Ghimouz, has been named for an international tournament in Croatia, while the U20 team prepares for the UNAF qualifying tournament to secure a spot in the 2027 CAN U20. Additionally, the U17-B squad has been called up for friendlies against Tunisia.

In European club football, AZ Alkmaar has taken the lead in the Eredivisie following a victory over Telstar, benefiting from PSV Eindhoven’s recent loss to FC Twente. Meanwhile, attention remains on Ajax talent Abdellah Ouazane, who has drawn comparisons to former Ajax players following his professional contract and recent call-ups to the Moroccan senior national team.