LEAD Morocco Takes on Surf Cup International 2026 in Tangier

Just hours after completing their end-of-year exams, LEAD Morocco’s U17 Girls and U17 Boys set off for Tangier to compete in Surf Cup International 2026. It was the academy’s first-ever international tournament, marking an important milestone for a program committed to developing young leaders through education and football.

Thanks to the generous support of the Yours in Soccer Foundation, LEAD Morocco’s student-athletes had the opportunity to compete against some of the strongest youth clubs in northern Morocco, challenge themselves in a new environment, and represent their community on a bigger stage.

For many of the students, the experience extended well beyond football. It meant traveling to a new part of the country, adapting to unfamiliar surroundings, and learning how to perform under pressure while supporting one another every step of the way.

The Boys Fight to the Final

The U17 Boys delivered an outstanding performance, advancing all the way to the finals before finishing as tournament runners-up. 

Throughout the tournament, they demonstrated the composure, resilience, and teamwork that have become hallmarks of LEAD Morocco. Every match required them to adjust, respond to adversity, and compete with confidence against talented opponents.

Their success was also recognized individually as LEAD Morocco student-athlete Ilyas finished the tournament as Top Scorer, an achievement that reflected both his determination and the collective effort of the entire team.

The Girls Push Through a Tough Start

The U17 Girls also demonstrated remarkable perseverance. After traveling for four hours on the day of their opening match, they stepped directly into competition with little time to recover. 

Despite the challenge, they responded with determination, earning a commanding victory during group play and advancing to the semifinals. Their effort and competitive spirit remained evident from the opening whistle to the end of their tournament.

More Than a Tournament

While the results are worth celebrating, Surf Cup International offered far more than the opportunity to compete. Throughout the tournament, LEAD Morocco’s student-athletes learned to adapt to unfamiliar surroundings, support one another through both victories and setbacks, and compete with confidence against strong opposition.

Every challenge they faced became another opportunity to grow as both student-athletes and young leaders. By the end of the tournament, the boys had earned a runner-up finish, the girls had reached the semifinals, and LEAD Morocco had once again demonstrated what can happen when young people are given the opportunity to develop their potential.

Whether competing for a championship, supporting a teammate, or representing their academy with integrity, every student-athlete embodied the values that define LEAD Morocco. 

We are deeply grateful to the Yours in Soccer Foundation for making this experience possible and for investing in the next generation of leaders. Their support opened the door for memories, lessons, and opportunities that will continue to shape these student-athletes long after they left Tangier.