Morocco made history on Sunday night by lifting their first-ever FIFA U20 World Cup trophy, defeating six-time champions Argentina 2–0 in a thrilling final at the Estadio Nacional Julio Martínez Prádanos in Santiago, Chile. The victory not only crowned a golden generation of Moroccan youth footballers but also marked the first time an African nation has ever won the FIFA U20 World Cup — a monumental achievement that sent waves of pride across the continent.
The hero of the night was Yassir Zabiri, who scored both goals for the Young Atlas Lions and delivered a performance for the ages. His composure, skill, and leadership on the pitch reflected Morocco’s transformation into one of world football’s most disciplined and tactically intelligent sides. Zabiri’s brilliance, combined with a collective defensive masterclass, proved too much for an Argentine side that entered the match as overwhelming favorites.
From the first whistle, Morocco showed no signs of intimidation against the South American giants. The North Africans pressed high, maintained their shape, and used the width of the pitch effectively to counter Argentina’s possession-based style. Their early intent paid off in spectacular fashion in the 12th minute when Zabiri stepped up for a free-kick just outside the penalty area. His curling right-footed strike sailed over the wall and dipped perfectly into the top corner, leaving Argentine goalkeeper Santino Barbi rooted to the spot.
The goal sent the Moroccan fans into delirium, their chants echoing across the Santiago stadium. Argentina tried to respond quickly, with captain Matías Soulé orchestrating attacks from midfield, but Morocco’s defense, led by Abdelhak Benyachou and Soufiane El Karti, held firm under pressure. Each Argentine attempt was met with a perfectly timed block or interception, reflecting the discipline instilled by Moroccan coach Hicham Dguig.
In the 28th minute, Morocco struck again — this time through a beautifully crafted team move. Winger Othmane Maamma sprinted down the right flank, evading two defenders before cutting the ball back into the path of Zabiri, who calmly slotted home from close range. The second goal silenced the Argentine supporters and sent Moroccan fans into dreamland.
Argentina dominated possession throughout the match, holding nearly 71 percent of the ball, but struggled to convert it into meaningful chances. Their usually potent attack, featuring the likes of Lucas Fiorentino and Agustín Giay, was suffocated by Morocco’s tactical discipline and compact structure. Every time Argentina tried to penetrate through the middle, Morocco closed the gaps and forced them wide, where their crosses were easily cleared.
Goalkeeper Amin Charki was another standout performer for Morocco, pulling off a string of impressive saves to deny Argentina a lifeline. His fingertip stop from Soulé’s free-kick in the 42nd minute drew applause even from neutral fans, showcasing the calm confidence that defined Morocco’s campaign.
The second half saw Argentina make several attacking substitutions, introducing fresh legs in a desperate attempt to break down Morocco’s defense. But the Africans responded with equal tactical awareness, tightening their lines and maintaining shape. Coach Dguig replaced an exhausted Maamma with Ilias Zouhair, whose energy and defensive work rate added stability on the flanks.
Argentina’s frustrations grew as their attacks repeatedly broke down in the final third. Even after multiple VAR reviews for potential handball and penalty incidents, referee Daniele Orsato waved play on, much to the dismay of the South Americans. Morocco, on the other hand, managed the clock brilliantly — slowing the tempo when needed, winning crucial free-kicks, and frustrating their opponents into mistakes.
By the 85th minute, it became increasingly clear that Morocco were on the brink of something historic. As the referee blew the final whistle, the Moroccan bench erupted in celebration. Players and officials sprinted onto the pitch, embracing one another in tears of joy. For a country that has invested heavily in youth development over the past decade, the moment represented the ultimate reward for years of patience, planning, and progress.
Yassir Zabiri, who was named Man of the Match, credited teamwork and national pride for their success. “This is for every Moroccan, for Africa, and for our families who believed in us,” Zabiri said after the match. “We came here not just to compete, but to make history — and we did it together.”
Coach Hicham Dguig, who masterminded Morocco’s tactical brilliance throughout the tournament, described the victory as “a dream realized.” He praised his players’ resilience and discipline, noting that their success was built on collective effort rather than individual flair. “We respected Argentina, but we believed in our identity,” Dguig said. “We defended as one, attacked as one, and trusted our system. These young men showed the world what African football is capable of.”
Morocco’s journey to the final was as inspiring as the triumph itself. The Young Atlas Lions topped their group after beating Brazil and South Korea, then went on to eliminate Spain in the quarterfinals and France in a dramatic semi-final that ended in a 4–3 penalty shootout victory. Each match demonstrated their ability to adapt tactically, handle pressure, and deliver under the spotlight.
The historic win sparked celebrations across Morocco and the wider African continent. Thousands flooded the streets of Casablanca, Rabat, and Marrakech, waving flags and chanting in unison. Social media platforms were filled with messages of pride and admiration, with fans and former players hailing the team’s performance as “a defining moment for African football.”
FIFA President Gianni Infantino congratulated Morocco on their achievement, describing it as “a breakthrough that reflects the growing global balance in football.” He added that Morocco’s triumph “will inspire generations of young players across Africa and beyond.”
For Argentina, the loss marked a bitter end to what had been a strong campaign. Despite dominating possession and creating numerous chances, they fell short in front of goal and were outsmarted tactically. Argentine coach Javier Mascherano graciously acknowledged Morocco’s superiority on the day. “They defended with heart, played with intelligence, and deserved the victory,” he admitted.
As the confetti fell and Moroccan players lifted the trophy, one thing became clear — this was not just a football victory, but a statement of Africa’s rising influence on the world stage. Morocco’s triumph at the FIFA U20 World Cup will be remembered as a moment that transcended sport — a story of hope, discipline, and the power of belief.
— Africa Live News
