In a historic moment, the Moroccan U20 national team secured the title of World Cup champions for their category after defeating the host nation Argentina 2-0 in the final held at the Estadio Nacional in Santiago, Chile.
### Morocco’s Determined Path to Victory
The Moroccan team entered the tournament with high ambitions, topping Group C with 7 points after victories over Spain (2-0) and Brazil (2-1), alongside a single defeat to Mexico (1-0). In the Round of 16, Morocco eliminated South Korea with a 2-1 win, followed by a 3-1 triumph over the United States in the quarter-finals. Their dramatic journey to the final included a semi-final clash against France, which ended in a 1-1 draw after extra time. Morocco triumphed 5-4 in a penalty shootout, aided by crucial saves from substitute goalkeeper Abd Al-Hakim Msbahi, who stepped in late due to an injury to first-choice keeper Yanis Benchaouch.
On the other hand, Argentina, a six-time champion, progressed confidently to the final with 9 points in the group stage, followed by victories against Nigeria (4-0), Mexico (2-0), and Colombia (1-0) in the semi-finals, courtesy of a goal from Mateo Silvetti. This marked the eighth final for the Albiceleste, but they faced a Moroccan team known for its speed and defensive discipline.
### Match Scenario: Early Goals
The match began before a massive crowd of Chilean and Moroccan fans, with global attention on the battle between the “Atlas Lions” and the Argentine team carrying the legacy of Maradona and Messi. Italian referee Maurizio Mariani officiated the match efficiently amid the tension on the field. Just 29 minutes in, Yasser Al-Zabiri, the team’s star and top scorer of the tournament, ignited joy with a stunning direct free-kick that curled into the top corner, beyond the reach of Argentine goalkeeper Santino Barbi.
This marked Al-Zabiri’s second goal from free-kicks in the tournament, highlighting his exceptional skill. The Moroccan pressure continued, and in the 42nd minute, Al-Zabiri scored again after a precise assist from midfield, bringing the score to 2-0 before halftime.
In the second half, Argentina attempted to mount a comeback with increased attacking pressure, but Morocco’s defense held firm, with key saves from the goalkeeper. The match concluded without further goals, sparking immense celebrations among fans in the stadium and on the streets of Morocco.
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