The Moroccan national team for under-20s began their campaign in the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile with a historic victory over Spain, winning 2-0 in their Group C match held at the Julio Martínez Prádanos National Stadium in Santiago on Sunday evening.
Morocco’s goals were scored by forward Yasser Zbiri in the 54th minute and winger Yassine Jassim (58th minute), who was named Man of the Match.
The first half featured a fast pace and back-and-forth attacking play from both teams, with Morocco showing a slight edge as they repeatedly attempted to penetrate the Spanish defense. However, their efforts were thwarted by poor finishing and the impressive performance of the Spanish goalkeeper.
As the match progressed, Morocco intensified their pressure on Spain’s defense, coming close to scoring in the 24th minute when winger Oussama Mimoune launched an individual effort, passing to Yassine Khalifi, who set it up for Yasser Zbiri to shoot, but his shot went wide.
Morocco’s tactical organization on the field, along with the individual skills of players like Oussama Mimoune and Yassine Jassim, allowed them to repeatedly threaten Spanish goalkeeper Gonzalo Franc.
Spain, on the other hand, relied on organized counterattacks and nearly capitalized in the 39th minute when forward David Milla broke into the Moroccan box, but goalkeeper Yassine Benchaouch skillfully denied his attempt, supported by a solid defense.
As the first half drew to a close, the pace of the game slowed, although both defenses remained resolute, keeping the score at 0-0.
At the start of the second half, both teams exhibited caution, relying on short passes to create space. In the 51st minute, Spanish forward Rodrigo Mendoza threatened Morocco with a strong header, but Benchaouch was in the right position to make the save.
Morocco’s response was swift; Yasser Zbiri received a precise pass from midfield from Man of the Match Yassine Jassim and skillfully placed it in the Spanish net in the 54th minute.
Just four minutes later, a quick counterattack saw Oussama Mimoune provide an excellent through ball to Yassine Jassim, who did not hesitate to find the back of the net, marking Morocco’s second goal.
Following the goals, Spain pushed forward in search of reducing the deficit, but the vigilant Moroccan defense, led by the promising Benchaouch, held firm.
To inject fresh energy into his squad, head coach Mohamed Wahbi substituted Younes Bahraoui for Saad El Haddad, Anas Tagouart for Oussama Mimoune, and Tahe Magni for Yassine Khalifi, which helped to close off all passing lanes, allowing Morocco to secure the victory and deliver the first surprise of the Chile World Cup.
Morocco will face Brazil in their second match on Thursday at 00:00 (Morocco time) at the Nacional Julio Martínez Stadium in Santiago, aiming for another positive result to pave their way to the knockout stage.
Source
