Morocco wrote their name in football history on Sunday night, claiming their first-ever FIFA U20 World Cup title with a 2-0 victory over Argentina in Santiago, Chile.
It was a monumental night for African football, as the Atlas Cubs became only the second African nation – after Ghana in 2009 – to lift the coveted trophy.
The match at Estadio Nacional Julio Martínez Prádanos began at a blistering pace, and Morocco wasted no time in making their intentions clear.
Famalicão forward, Yassir Zabiri opened the scoring in the 12th minute with a stunning free-kick that left Argentine goalkeeper Santino Barbi stranded. His precision and composure set the tone for what would become an unforgettable evening.
Argentina, however, tried to wrest control through their trademark possession-based football. They held 71% of the ball and dictated the tempo, yet Morocco’s discipline and organisation at the back frustrated them time and again. Each Argentine surge was met with calculated defending and well-timed interceptions from the resolute Moroccan backline.
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Zabiri’s brilliance and Morocco’s tactical masterclass seal historic triumph
Despite Argentina’s dominance in possession, Morocco’s counter-attacks remained sharp and purposeful. In the 28th minute, Othmane Maamma – who would later be crowned the tournament’s best player – threaded a perfect pass for Zabiri, who finished coolly from close range to double the lead.
As the South Americans pushed forward, Morocco’s defensive discipline only grew stronger. The African side absorbed waves of pressure with patience, while their goalkeeper produced key saves to preserve the clean sheet. Even after several VAR checks and free-kick opportunities, Argentina failed to find a breakthrough.
In the final half-hour, Morocco’s tactical substitutions tightened their midfield and defence further. The Argentine players grew visibly frustrated as time ran out, while Morocco’s bench erupted in celebration at the final whistle.
Zabiri, who delivered both goals with poise, was deservedly named Man of the Match. Meanwhile, Maamma’s creative influence earned him the Golden Ball, after contributing one goal and four assists across seven matches.
Tags: Morocco, Argentina, Atlas Cubs, #FIFAU20WorldCup, #U20WC, FIFA U20 World Cup, Estadio Nacional Julio Martínez Prádanos, Yassir Zabiri, Santino Barbi, Othmane Maamma.
